Argyresthia spinosella

It’s place in the Garden (Visitor/Lured)

The larva/caterpillars feed on the leaves of Blackthorn & Plums. Whilst not present in the Garden at the time of writing (Dec 2022), Blackthorn is present in nearby Woodlands and our Local Nature Reserve.

All stages of a moths development are subject to a wide range of predators. Including small mammals, birds and amphibians. Other invertebrates are also a major threat, including dragonflies, beetles, lacewing and wasps. As such whilst many view certain caterpillars as a pest, these small packets of protein help support a wide array of other beneficial and interesting species. Moths are of course interesting in their own right and are very welcome in the Garden.

How to encourage the species to your garden

Current distribution maps ⁽²⁾ place this species across much of England and Wales, so if you live in an area with Argyresthia spinosella already present, there is a fair chance that by introducing this food plant to your own garden the moth will arrive of its own accord. Blackthorn of course produces sloes which are sought after by both Birds and Gin drinkers alike. However it is known to sucker easily and in larger gardens / out of the way areas, its spread can go unnoticed if not careful.

Alternatively, you can lure moths to you by leaving a secure window open and a light on during the warmer months, or better still invest in a moth trap. Even if you don’t see this species, you may be visited by many other interesting species.