Coleophora alticolella

Wingspan 10 to 12 mm. The adults resemble several other Coleophora species and are most reliably identified by dissection of the genitalia.

Occurring wherever Juncus rush species grow and seed, up to 660 metres above sea level in some years.

Flight period June and July, possibly late April and May, at sunrise, dusk and night.

The full grown larval case is very similar to that of another Juncus feeding species, C. glaucicolella, but the larvae can be differentiated.

It is the most widespread and common British Coleophora species. In the Butterfly Conservation's Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as common.

It appears to be uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland, where there are few records. L&R Moth Group status = D (rare or rarely recorded).