These moths can be found in Europe,[1] across the Palearctic to Japan and Ussuri.[2] They are very common in the British Isles compared to other moth species.
Habitat
This species is present in deciduous forest environments where birch grows.
Mounted specimen
Description
Argyresthia retinella has a wingspan of 9–10 mm. Forewings are white with subtle greyish or light brown markings, with a darker drawing on the wing tip. Hind wings are gray.[3] Meyrick - Head white. Forewings shining white, irregularly strigulated with dark fuscous; an indistinct fuscous subcostal suffusion anteriorly; a suffused dark fuscous spot in middle of disc, and a larger one towards apex; a black apical dot. Hindwings grey.[4][5]
Argyresthia retinella is a univoltine species. Adults are on the wing from June to July depending on the location. Eggs of these moths were found almost exclusively on lichens. The larvae feed on the catkins and shoots of birch (Betula species).[3]
Bibliography
Elverum, E., T.J. Johnsen & A.C. Nilssen (2003): Life history, egg cold hardiness and diapause of Argyresthia retinella (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae). — Norwegian Journal of Entomology 50(1): 43–53.
^Meyrick, E., 1895 A Handbook of British Lepidoptera MacMillan, London pdf This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain. Keys and description
