Leaving work early this afternoon, after a day of rain, I was pleased to see the sun finally break through and the wind drop. I had a site in Brightwell-cum-Sotwell that I wanted to visit after noticing on iRecord last year that Orange-tailed Clearwing had been recorded there. Having spent countless hours trying to lure this species in Oxfordshire last year without success, I thought it was worth another attempt.
On arrival, I found the spot, set up the pheromone lure, and within minutes one came straight in before disappearing again. I could hardly believe it. A short while later, it returned and entered the trap, giving me excellent views. What an incredible week I was having, first Thrift Clearwing and now Orange-tailed Clearwing!
The Orange-tailed Clearwing (Synanthedon andrenaeformis) is a remarkable day-flying moth that mimics a small wasp, with transparent wings and a distinctive orange-tipped abdomen. It is widespread across much of Europe, including southern Britain, where the larvae develop beneath the bark of apple and other fruit trees. Adults are typically seen in late spring and early summer around orchards, gardens, and woodland edges.