Common Nettle-tap
Common NameCommon Nettle-tap
Scientific NameAnthophila fabriciana
FamilyChoreutidae
SubfamilyChoreutinae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, cream
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, hedgerows, gardens, damp areas where nettles grow
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, North Africa
Host PlantsUrtica dioica (Common Nettle)
Flight PeriodMay to September (often two broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed gregariously on the leaves of Common Nettle, often spinning a slight web. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon on the host plant or nearby.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, dark mottled wings with white speckles, and its characteristic jerky flight. Often found in association with its host plant, Common Nettle.
Description
A small moth with dark brown to black forewings heavily mottled with numerous small white or cream spots and irregular pale bands. The hindwings are dark grey with a pale fringe.
