Hedge Cosmet
Common NameHedge Cosmet
Scientific NamePancalia leuwenhoekella
FamilyCosmopterigidae
SubfamilyCosmopteriginae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white, orange, silver
HabitatWoodland edges, hedgerows, grasslands, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEurope
Host PlantsViola riviniana, Viola canina, Viola hirta
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are internal feeders, initially mining leaves and later boring into the stems or rootstocks of Viola species. Pupation occurs in a cocoon near the host plant.
Identification TipsLook for the combination of dark, iridescent forewings with white/silver markings, the striking orange band on the abdomen, and its relatively long, slender antennae. Its small size and association with violet plants are also key.
Description
A small, slender moth with dark, iridescent forewings marked with prominent white or silvery streaks and spots. It features a distinctive bright orange band on its abdomen.
