Clouded Slender
Common NameClouded Slender
Scientific NameCaloptilia hemidactyla
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyGracillariinae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, cream, black
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host PlantsAcer pseudoplatanus, Acer campestre
Flight PeriodMay to June, August to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners on maple species, creating blotch mines before exiting to form a cone or roll in the leaf margin for pupation.
Identification TipsRecognizable by its extremely slender, elongated resting posture, mottled cryptic coloration, and association with maple trees as host plants.
Description
A small, very slender moth with an elongated body and wings held tightly along its back, displaying a mottled pattern of brown, grey, and cream with darker streaks and spots.
