Agonopterix heracliana

Wingspan 15 to 21 mm. Identification can be difficult but Agonopterix heracliana can generally be confirmed by checking the hindwing cilia lines, usually showing just one distinct line (with other faint lines possible). However dissection to confirm is preferred.

A. heracliana can be reliably recorded in the larval stage, with the larva showing a green-tinged yellow/orange head.

Where these checks have not been carried out records should be added to the Agonopterix heracliana agg. page.

Records must include an image of the hindwing. Larval records must show the larval head colour.

Gardens, waste ground, woodland edges and a wide range of other habitats.

This moth can be found on the wing any time from September through to April.

The larvae spin the leaves of a variety of umbelliferous plants, occurring between May and July.

A common species 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)