Bramble Leaf-miner Moth
Common NameBramble Leaf-miner Moth
Scientific NameStigmella villosella
FamilyNepticulidae
SubfamilyNepticulinae
Wingspan (mm)4
Primary Colorsdark brown, purple, cream
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope
Host PlantsRubus fruticosus, Rubus idaeus
Flight PeriodMay to June, August to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae create characteristic long, winding, linear mines on the upper surface of bramble or raspberry leaves, often starting narrow and widening. Pupation occurs outside the mine in a cocoon.
Identification TipsAdults are identified by their tiny size, dark wings with a distinct pale central band and tornal spot, and yellowish head. The leaf mine, a winding gallery on *Rubus* leaves with a central frass line, is highly diagnostic for the species.
Description
A minute moth with dark purplish-brown forewings, distinguished by a prominent silvery-white transverse fascia in the middle and a pale tornal spot. The head is typically yellowish-orange.
