19.007 BF391

Cocksfoot Moth Glyphipterix simpliciella

(Stephens, 1834)

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Wingspan 6-9 mm.

A very common species in much of Britain and Ireland, it can be found in good numbers between May and July visiting flowers, especially those of buttercup (Ranunculus). There can sometimes be 20 or more to one flower.

The larval foodplant is mainly the grass cock's foot (Dactylis glomerata), where the tiny caterpillars feed on the seeds, later pupating in the stem.

The moths are tiny (3 or 4mm long) and are easily overlooked, but when inspected closely can be seen slowly 'pumping' their wings slightly open and closed.