Bud Moth - Spilonota ocellana

Wingspan 12-17 mm. Although quite variable in the density and colour of the markings, this moth can usually be identified by the darker area towards the head and the small blackish triangular blotch on each forewing, forming a diamond shape when at rest.

Open woodland, hedgerows, orchards, gardens and plantations.

Flies during July and August.

The larvae feed on a wide range of shrubs and trees and, as the English name suggests, burrow into the buds during the spring, causing them to wither.

It is quite common over much of Britain, especially the south. In the Butterfly Conservation’s Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as common.

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = A (common and resident)