Diamond-back Moth


Plutella xylostella – A very common micro-moth with a fairly distinct diamond pattern on its … well – its back. Double-click on images to get closer.




Copyright: Peter Hillman
Camera used: Nikon D7200
Date taken: 6th July 2019
Place: Attracted to moth trap, rear garden, Staffordshire


Diamond-back Moth


Plutella xylostella – This small micro moth has been quite a regular visitor to the garden over the years. As can be seen, it has quite a distinctive pattern.


Diamond-back Moth Plutella


Diamond-back Moth Plutella


Diamond-back Moth Plutella


Copyright: Peter Hillman
Camera used: Nikon D7200
Date taken: 15th July 2017
Place: Attracted to moth trap, rear garden, Staffordshire


Yponomeutidae

Cherry Fruit Moth Argyresthia pruniella
Cherry Fruit Moth Argyresthia pruniella

This is quite a mouthful to pronounce, I know, but Yponomeutidae is quite an interesting and varied family of micro moths. These are the ermine moths, so called as some species resemble a stoat in its winter coat, being white with black dots. They belong to the superfamily Yponomeutoidea. The larvae often form communal webs, and can be serious pests in agriculture and forestry. There are around 73 speices found in the UK, with 8 subfamilies. Here are a few examples.

Diamond-back Moth Plutella xylostell
Diamond-back Moth Plutella xylostell

Ypsolopha scabrella
Ypsolopha scabrella

Ypsolopha sequella
Ypsolopha sequella

Bird-cherry Ermine Yponomeuta evonymella
Bird-cherry Ermine Yponomeuta evonymella


All photographs taken in 2011, rear garden, Staffordshire. © Pete Hillman 2011.