The Little Ermel belongs to the ermine moths and is a common species throughout most of Britain and Ireland.
Little Ermel (Swammerdamia pyrella) belongs to the ermine moths (Yponomeutidae) and is and is a common species throughout most of Britain and Ireland. The caterpillars of this +11 mm butterfly live in spins on the leaves of apples, pears, hawthorn and cherries; the host plants of the Little Ermel.
Ermine moths, including the Little Ermel, can eat a tree or shrub completely bare; yet they are not harmful and the tree or shrub usually just sprouts after a few weeks.
Earwigs, parasitoid wasps and birds are among the natural enemies of Little Ermel caterpillars.
Where to find
- Apple tree
- Cherry Tree
- Hawthorn
- Pear tree
Control
Early in the spring, remove leaves with spins with branch and all, this way the population remains limited.
Prevention
In autumn, remove the spins; they contain eggs. Create an earwig friendly environment by hanging earthenware flower pots filled with hay or straw upside down from apple, pear and cherry trees.
