Pistol Case-bearer - Coleophora anatipennella

Phylum: Arthropoda - Class: Insecta - Order: Lepidoptera - Family: Coleophoridae

This moth is more widespread in the southern parts of its territory than the north. It derives its common name from its shape which is said to resemble a flintlock pistol.

It is silvery-white in colour and has brownish speckles throughout its wings.

It is on the wing during June and July.

The wingspan of the Pistol Case-bearer ranges between 12 and 16mm.

Distribution

Coleophora anatipennella is common and widespread throughout the UK and Ireland although more common in the southern parts of both.

Lifecycle

The Pistol Case-bearer has a two year lifecycle.

The larval foodplants of this moth are various shrubs and trees including Blackthorn and Hawthorn. It is also known to infest fruit trees and can cause damage to fruit crops.

Picture: Rob Petley-Jones

Studying butterflies and moths...