Submitted by AJ Cann on
Stigmella catharticella

We're quickly moving into the most productive time of year for leaf-mining. If you've not given it a go, why not try to add a few dots to maps? More...

Moth expert Pete Leonard writes: 
All you need to begin with is a hand lens, some basic plant ID skills and this key: http://www.leafmines.co.uk/html/Mine_Guide.htm 
You can easily record a heap of moth species which are right under your nose, yet you probably had no idea were there. Found one of my favourites today, Stigmella catharticella on Buckthorn. 

Photo: Pete Leonard