Hazel Leafminer Moth
Common NameHazel Leafminer Moth
Scientific NamePhyllonorycter coryli
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyGracillariinae
Wingspan (mm)7
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, white, silver
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, and other areas where hazel trees are present.
Geographic RangeEurope and parts of Asia.
Host PlantsCorylus avellana (common hazel)
Flight PeriodMay to June and August to September (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae of the Hazel Leafminer Moth are leafminers, creating characteristic 'tentiform' mines within the leaves of hazel trees. Eggs are laid on the underside of leaves, and the caterpillars feed between the epidermal layers, causing the leaf tissue to separate and form a blister-like mine. Pupation occurs inside the mine.
Identification TipsIdentification is primarily by the distinctive tentiform mines found on hazel leaves, which appear as raised, blister-like patches. Adult moths are tiny and require close examination, often under magnification, to distinguish species-specific wing patterns.
Description
A very small and delicate moth, typically with a wingspan of about 7mm. Its wings display intricate patterns of brown, white, and silvery scales, often with distinct streaks or spots that provide camouflage.
