UKMoths Coleophora lixella - Distribution map
Please note that the NBN Gateway map service has been terminated as of 1 April 2017.
As soon as a replacement map service is available, distribution maps will hopefully appear here again.
In the meantime, you can get some idea of distribution from the NBN Atlas website.
37.061 BF530
Coleophora lixella
Zeller, 1849
Wingspan c. 19 mm.
One of the more distinctive of the Coleophoridae, and one of the larger species, C. lixella has a rather recurved forewing apex and dusky-outlined whitish streaks against a yellow ground colour.
The larva initially feeds on the seeds of thyme (Thymus), feeding within a floret and using this as its case. After overwintering, it changes foodplants to grass, and eventually forms an elongated case from two grass blade portions sewn together.
The adult moths fly in July and August, and can be found on the wing in the afternoon as well as after dark.
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