Caloptilia populetorum

Wingspan 11 to14 mm. The adults resemble several other Caloptilia species and are best identified by the dark spots on the forewing leading edge and darker cilia.

A species of moorland and heath especially where Birch is present.

The flight period is from August onwards, overwintering after which they may be seen until April or May.

Despite the scientific name, the larvae feed on birch (Betula) leaves, initially in a gallery and later rolling a leaf and feeding within.

This species has a wide distribution over much of mainland Britain, but is not especially common. In the Butterfly Conservation's Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as local.

It appears to be uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland, where there are few records. L&R Moth Group status = D (rare or rarely recorded).