4.035 BF68

Stigmella salicis

(Stainton, 1854)

[Synonyms: auritella]

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Wingspan 4-6 mm.

A common species throughout the British Isles, feeding on sallow (Salix spp.), preferring the rough-leaved species.

The larval mine is usually broad and short, often doubling back and creating a 'false blotch'. The frass is broken linear. The mines can be found in June and July and from September into November.

The adults have dark forewings with a purplish sheen and an irregular yellowish fascia. The cilia are noticeably pale and the head is orange. They are on the wing in April and May and again in July and August.