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Micropterix mansuetella
Black-headed Pollen-moth Zeller, 1844
Micropterigidae
2 / 1.002
Photo © Patrick Clement,  Monkwood, Worcestershire, 24 May 2016.

Similar West Midlands Species
Red-barred Pollen-moth
Micropterix tunbergella
Wingspan: 7-9 mm
Flight: May - June
Nat Status: Nationally Scarce B
Verification Grade:  Adult: 1

Rare resident.

Can be found feeding on pollen in flowers of Ranunculus repens, Valeriana dioica, Crataegus and on flowerheads of Carex pendula in wet rides in ancient deciduous woodland. Black scales on the head and a subtle fascia separate this species, but beware worn M.calthella where the orange head scales are missing.

Early stages not described.

Verification Grade Comment: May need photo verification if away from known sites.

Recorded in 9 (6%) of 140 10k Squares.
First Recorded in 1887.
Last Recorded in 2022.
(Data up to end 2023)

Latest 5 Records (Data up to end 2023)
Date#VC10k Area
22/06/2022339SJ82 - Eccleshall/Gnosall
14/05/2022140SO77 - Wyre Forest
20/05/2018137SO86 - Droitwich Spa
09/05/2018+37SO86 - Droitwich Spa
07/05/2017237SO86 - Droitwich Spa
Further info: Micropterix mansuetella
 
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