Micropterix calthella

Another tiny species, with a wingspan of around 8 to 10mm, this moth has metallic bronzy forewings, with purplish tinges in places. Like other Micropterix species, it has a tuft of hairs on the head and like other members of the family, this species has functional jaws.

Damp woodland, woodland rides and woodland clearings.

It can be found flying in the daytime in May and June, where it feeds on the pollen of various plants.

Larva feeds on plant detritus and also, perhaps, various liverworts.

It is fairly common throughout most of Britain. In the Butterfly Conservation’s Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as common.

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