Hantsmoths

Nationally scarce (Nb) on chalk downland and rough meadows throughout much of England, predominantly in the south-east. Described in MBGBI Vol 2 as "an inconspicuous and evasive insect which may have been overlooked in many areas". In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight this is almost certainly the case; the moth and its early stages have been found in several places in south Hampshire, but there are still few records from north Hampshire, and only one recent record from Wight. Wingspan 7-9 mm. Dialectica imperialella is similar, but lacks the two basal silver spots on the dorsum and has a conspicuous white apical spot, also clearly visible on the underside; the hindleg has a row of bristles on the tibia and is only obscurely banded with white. Larva mines leaves of Red Clover, White Clover and Spiny Restharrow.