Coleophora albicosta

    Gorse Case-bearer

    ColeophoridaeABH 37.063 B&F 544

    Like many coleophorids, recorded both as an adult at light (when it requires dissection) and as a larval case, for this species on gorse.  Unsurprisingly, most records are from western, acidic upland areas - and it might well be much more common on Exmoor than records show - but it also occurs on the gorse that invades calcareous downland on the Mendips.  No records east of a line between Cheddar and Crewkerne, where the foodplant is scarce or altogether absent.

    Adult Verification Grade: 2

    Case Verification Grade: C1

    Gorse Case-bearer (Coleophora albicosta) photographed in Somerset by Paul Wilkins