Teleiopsis diffinis
Common NameTeleiopsis diffinis
Scientific NameTeleiopsis diffinis
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black
HabitatDry, open habitats, heathlands, chalk downland
Geographic RangeEurope (from Portugal to Russia, north to southern Scandinavia, south to Italy and the Balkan Peninsula)
Host PlantsThymus serpyllum, Helianthemum nummularium
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of host plants such as wild thyme and common rock-rose, typically spinning leaves together or mining them. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often near the ground.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size and the intricate, mottled brown and grey forewing pattern, which provides excellent camouflage. Long, slender antennae are also characteristic.
Description
A small, slender moth with a cryptically patterned forewing, featuring mottled shades of brown, grey, and black, allowing it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings.
