Apple Leaf Skeletonizer

A local species, So-called because of the caterpillars habit of eating away the parenchyma from the upper surface of leaves of the foodplant, within a silk web, resulting in a skeleton leaf appearance.

Adults can be seen resting by day on leaves but are also attracted to light.

Flight Season

Flies in two generations, from June-July and again from late August to March when it overwinters, has been recorded in May.

Size and Family

• Family – Micros
• Small Sized
• Wingspan Range – 11-15mm

Conservation Status

• UK BAP:
• Local resident

Caterpillar Food Plants

Caterpillars feed primarily on Apple and Crab-apple (Malus spp.) but occasionally Hawthorn (Crataegus), Wild Pear (Pyrus) and Rowan (Sorbus)

Habitat

Found in woodland and scrub but also where isolated trees grow in urban areas and gardens.

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales and Scotland
• A local species, very local in some areas, especially further north and in Wales.