Common Nettle-tap
Common NameCommon Nettle-tap
Scientific NameAnthophila fabriciana
FamilyChoreutidae
SubfamilyChoreutinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, white, orange, metallic silver
HabitatMeadows, hedgerows, disturbed ground, gardens, woodland edges
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North America
Host Plantsstinging nettle, Urtica dioica
Flight PeriodApril to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners or skeletonizers, feeding on nettle leaves under a silken web. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often on the host plant.
Identification TipsSmall size, distinctive white spots and metallic markings on dark forewings, often found near nettle patches, and a characteristic resting posture with wings held flat.
Description
A small, dark moth with intricate patterns of prominent white spots, orange-brown patches, and metallic scales on its forewings, and a distinctly banded abdomen.
