12.04 BF231

Monopis imella
Coastal Detritus Moth

(Hübner, [1813])

Wingspan c.12 mm

This relatively nondescript species generally shows a yellowish tuft of scales on the head, and a narrow pale buff line along the edge of the costa. There can be a pale spot on the forewing but often the forewing looks entirely plain.

The larvae feed on refuse of animal origin, such as wool or hair, and are sometimes found in birds' nests.

Adults occur between June and September, possibly in two generations. The species has a fairly wide distribution over the British Isles, but is relatively uncommon.