Photo © Pat Clements

Parornix betulae

Checklist Number
15.025 [B&F: 0301]

Verification
Record requires retention of specimen until confirmed, and may require dissection. Consult with CMR if unsure

Classification

Family:Gracillariidae
Subfamily:Gracillariinae
Genus:Parornix
Species:betulae
Authority:(Stainton, 1854)

Common on heathland and open woodland throughout much of the British Isles. Widespread and common in Hampshire, but rather less frequent on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 9-10 mm. Very similar to P. loganella, from which separated only by dissection of the genitalia. Imago seldom encountered at light, and more likely to be recorded in the larval stage, when mines are relatively easy to find where they are present. Larva mines leaves of Birch, subsequently living within a leaf-fold, over-wintering as a pupa in a cocoon.

The abundance in each month is indicated as follows:

No records
Very occasional
Irregular
Uncommon
Off-peak, but not unusual
Off-peak, but not unusual
Main flight time
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Adult
Larval

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)