Flax Tortrix - Cnephasia asseclana

Wingspan 15-18 mm. The patterning of the wings can be variable with dark brown bands and spots on a paler brown background.  There are other very similar species in this genus which means that detailed examination of an actual specimen is generally needed to identify the exact species. A red box around the image indicates that we think it is likely to be this species but can't be 100% certain.

Occupies gardens, farmland and other open habitats where it can often be found resting on trees and fences etc.

The adults fly between June and August and are attracted to light.

The larvae feed on a wide range of herbaceous plants, mining leaves initially and then spinning together leaves or flowers.

A reasonably common species throughout Britain. In the Butterfly Conservation’s Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as common.

Probably quite common in Leicestershire and Rutland but secure identification is difficult. L&R Moth Group status = A (G) (common and resident but genitalia examination needed for secure identification)