Mompha subbistrigella

Wingspan 7-11.5 mm. A greyish species with two whiter bands.

In summer they can be seen around the larval foodplant - Willowherb, particularly Broad-leaved Willowherb. They may also be found overwintering in sheds etc.

The adults emerge in late summer and may be seen on the wing any time until late spring.

The larvae of this widely distributed species feed within the seedpods of Broad-leaved Willowherb and occasionally on other Willowherb species. The affected pods may be recognised as they become thickened, shortened, distorted and often redden prematurely. The pod will also have a hole in the side.

This moth is fairly common in England and Wales, with a restricted distribution in Scotland and Ireland. In the Butterfly Conservation’s Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as common.

Fairly frequent but not common in Leicestershire & Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = B (scarce resident or restricted distribution or regular migrant)