Stigmella tityrella

Wingspan 5 to 6 mm. Another of the very similar Nepticulidae, which are best identified by the nature of the larval feeding pattern, usually creating diagnostically-shaped mines in leaves. This species feeds on beech (Fagus sylvatica), creating an S-shaped mine, usually within the confines of two veins.

Areas where Beech is found.

The adults fly in April and May, and again in July and August.

Widespread and fairly common over much of the British Isles. In the Butterfly Conservation's Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as common.

It appears to be uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland, where there are few records, but this is probably due to the difficulties of identification in adults, and that fact that few people record leaf mines. L&R Moth Group status = D (rare or rarely recorded).