Food Plant: Solidago virgaurea (Golden Rod), occasionally on Aster tripolium (Sea aster)

Mine: September-May

Notes: The larva initially feeds on seeds and doesn't make the case until it reaches the final instar. The silken case is white at first and then darkens to a brown colour. On Golden Rod the case is coated with porcupine-like hairs which are formed from the pappus hairs. On Sea Aster it is coated with withered bracts. A widespread and locally common species in the UK, but absent from East Anglia and the East Midlands. The case shown is on Golden Rod. Formerly called Coleophora obscenella. Larval habitat with Solidago virgaurea growing on a slumped limestone cliff.

Data: 14.x.2023, Watchet, Somerset, VC5

Image:© Will Langdon