How to take part
Full instructions are below including identification instructions, but you can also download a pdf.
Part 1. Between 4th and 13th July
![]() Find a horse chestnut tree attacked by the leaf miner moth. It will have pale or brown patches on the leaves. Pick a leaf that is within your reach. Don't climb the tree or use a ladder! |
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Write on the bag:
Keep the bag in a cool room and away from bright light. |
You can collect as many leaves from as many trees as you want, but put each leaflet in a separate bag. The more you collect, the better the results will be - and the more chance you have of seeing the pest controllers! |
What was under the tree?
How much leaf miner damage?
Part 2: Between 18th and 24th July (two weeks after part 1)
Look very carefully at the contents of your bag. Use a magnifying glass, if available, to identify the tiny insects that have emerged from the leaf. Use the images below or download a pdf. How many adult moths and pest controllers can you see? One adult pest controller means one moth has been killed by it! Record your results - the link will be available on 18th July |
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DO count the pest controllers (parasitoid wasps)
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Don't count the caterpillars or pupal cases
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Do look very carefully!
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