Shy Cosmet Moth
Common NameShy Cosmet Moth
Scientific NameCosmopterix pulchrimella
FamilyCosmopterigidae
SubfamilyCosmopteriginae
Wingspan (mm)9
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, white, black
HabitatGardens, disturbed areas, open woodlands, urban environments
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia, North America (introduced)
Host PlantsParietaria officinalis, Urtica dioica
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners, feeding internally within the leaves of their host plants, primarily Pellitory-of-the-wall and Stinging Nettle.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, slender body, and the distinctive coppery-brown forewings marked with two dark, white-ringed spots and a white costal streak.
Description
A small, slender moth with coppery-brown forewings featuring two prominent dark spots outlined in white/silver, and a distinct white streak along the costa.
