Hantsmoths

Common in woodland throughout much of the British Isles, more numerous in the north. In Hampshire fairly common in the south and north-east, but largely absent elsewhere. First recorded on the Isle of Wight at Parkhurst Forest in 1997, but not since. Wingspan 7.5-8.5 mm. Similar to P. oxyacanthae, which see for differences. Imago seldom seen at light and more frequently recorded in the larval stage, when mines are relatively easy to find where they are present. Larva mines leaves of Rowan and Bird Cherry, over-wintering as a pupa in a cocoon.