Epichnopterix plumella
Plumed Bagworm

Wingspan c.12mm (male).

A scarce and local species occurring mainly in the south-east of England, with some records further north and west to Derbyshire and Wales. It has also been recorded in Ireland.

Inhabiting grassy habitats and moors, the males have distinctive bipectinate antennae and are covered with long blackish hair-like scales. They fly in sunshine between April and June. The females are wingless and grub-like, and do not leave the larval case.

The larva feeds on grasses and builds a case not dissimilar to that of Psyche casta.