Caloptilia alchimiella

Wingspan 10 to13 mm. The adults are difficult to distinguish from the recently separated C. robustella, so care must be taken. When an image appears in a red box it is likely to be this species, but no detailed examination has taken place to confirm the identification, so it can only be said to be typical of the species.

Caloptilia robustella is very similar but the yellow triangle does not extend as far along the costa.

Areas where oak is present.

The flight period is from May to July, and the moths can sometimes be attracted to light.

The eggs of this species are laid on the leaves of oak (Quercus). When hatched, the larva at first mines the leaves in a gallery leading to a blotch. Subsequently the larva forms a succession of cones (usually three) by folding the tips of the leaves, and feeding within.

Seems to be widespread in Britain. In the Butterfly Conservation's Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as common.

Occasional in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = C (very scarce resident or rare migrant).