16.01 BF435

Zelleria hepariella

Stainton, 1849

Wingspan c. 12 mm.

A widespread but locally distributed species throughout much of Britain, the combination of the rufous or chestnut forewing colour and the 'nose-down' Argyresthia-like resting posture make this species quite distinctive.

There is one generation, the adults emerging in July or August and overwintering, usually in thick cover, reappearing again in the early spring.

The larva feeds on ash (Fraxinus excelsior), sometimes gregariously, in spun leaves.