Food Plant: Crataegus spp. (Hawthorn), Prunus spinosa (Blackthorn), Prunus spp. (Plum or Cherry)

Egg: laid on the spines (usually) or the stem

Mine: March-April

Notes: The eggs may hatch in about three weeks or overwinter. In Spring they mine the leaves (as shown on P.spinosa) or feed in buds. They then feed gregariously in a web, which extends as they consume the food source and, in severe infestations, the whole tree may be affected.

National Status: Common

Data: 29.iii.2012, west of Ayrmer Cove, South Devon, VC3

Image:© Bob Heckford