15.013 BF291
Caloptilia hemidactylella
([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)
Wingspan c.13 mm.
A very rare species in Britain, which has been recorded a number of times in recent years from a handful of locations, mostly in central southern England. It is similar in outward appearance to other Caloptilia species, and care should be taken in its identification. A number of previous records are now regarded as misidentifications.
The larva forms a cone on a leaf of sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) although abroad it is found on other maples including field maple (A. campestre).
The adult flies from September and overwinters.