Hazel Blotchminer
Common NameHazel Blotchminer
Scientific NamePhyllonorycter coryli
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyLithocolletinae
Wingspan (mm)7
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsorange, white, brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, and areas where its host plants, such as hazel and hornbeam, are present.
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, and introduced to North America.
Host PlantsHazel (Corylus avellana), Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)
Flight PeriodMay to June, August to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are leaf miners, creating characteristic blotch mines on the upper surface of host plant leaves, typically hazel or hornbeam. Pupation occurs within the mine.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its minute size, the striking orange-brown and white striped wing pattern, and the unique blotch mines it forms on the leaves of hazel or hornbeam.
Description
A very small moth characterized by its orange-brown forewings adorned with several prominent white transverse bands, often edged with black scales, and a distinctive white fringe.
