Food Plant: Prunus spinosa (blackthorn), P.domestica (Plum), Malus spp. (Apple)

Mine: September-May

Notes: A rare miner which makes cases like those of Col.coracipennella and Col.spinella.The larvae appar similar too. In order to identify, the adult must be reared and then gen det. (as is the case here). it intially forms a tiny gallery mine which extends into a blotch 2x1mm approx.,, which is then cut out forming the first case. After a week of feeding it undergoes ecdysis to form a second case which feeds a little and then hibernayes over the winter. Feeding resumes in spring and the case attaches itself to the top of a leaf in a sunny situation, or a twig, for pupation (as shown).

Bradley No: 494a

National Status: Nationally Scarce B

Data: 06.v.2025, Lavernock Point NR, Glamorgan, VC41

Image:© George Tordoff