Pamphilius sylvaticus

Alternative names
Thorn Leaf-roller
Description

Size: 8 to10 mm. The abdomen is black without a band of reddish-yellow on the middle segments. The third antennal segment is clearly shorter than the scape and about the same length as, or less than, segment four. Scutellum yellow. Antennal scape dark marked at the base of the inner side. Head usually with conspicuous yellow spots behind each eye.

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features, then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed.

Habitat

Hedgerows where Hawthorn or Blackthorn are present. Also found on Rowan, Prunus etc.

When to see it

Flight period: April to July.

Life History

Pamphilius sylvaticus larvae are associated with Hawthorn, Blackthorn and several broadleaved tree species. They create a leaf-roll and feed within.

UK Status

Widespread in Britain. This is the commonest species in this genus, and found as far north as northern Scotland.

VC55 Status

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Species profile

Species group:
Sawflies
Kingdom:
Order:
Family:
Records on NatureSpot:
2
First record:
04/05/2023 (Higgott, Mike)
Last record:
07/06/2023 (Nicholls, David)

Total records by month

% of records within its species group

10km squares with records

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