Brassy Longhorn
Common NameBrassy Longhorn
Scientific NameNemophora degeerella
FamilyAdelidae
SubfamilyAdelinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patterniridescent
Primary Colorsgold, brass, brown, black, orange
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, meadows, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsdecaying leaves, detritus
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae live in a portable case constructed from leaf fragments, feeding on decaying plant matter on the ground. Pupation occurs within this case.
Identification TipsKey features for identification are the iridescent brassy-gold forewings and the exceptionally long, white-tipped antennae, especially prominent in males. Females have shorter antennae and a more pointed abdomen.
Description
A small moth with striking metallic brassy-gold forewings and an orange head. Males are particularly notable for their extremely long, white-tipped antennae, which can be several times their body length.
