Red Birch Midget
Common NameRed Birch Midget
Scientific NameEriocrania sparrmannella
FamilyEriocraniidae
Wingspan (mm)11
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgolden-orange, silver, black
HabitatBirch woodlands, heathlands, fens
Geographic RangeEurope (widespread)
Host PlantsBetula spp. (birch), Alnus spp. (alder)
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf-miners, creating characteristic blotch mines on the leaves of birch trees, sometimes alder. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the metallic golden-orange forewings with two distinct silvery-white bands and a dark spot near the wing tip. The hairy, tufted head is also a key feature. Found in early spring in birch-rich habitats.
Description
A small, slender moth with metallic golden-orange forewings marked by two prominent silvery-white fasciae and a dark apical spot, featuring a distinctive tufted, hairy head.
