Hantsmoths

Common in hedgerows in England and Wales. In Hampshire mines are widespread and common on Elm in both vice-counties, and evidently also widespread on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 7.5-8.5 mm. Imago differs from P. stettinensis, P. froelichiella, P. nicellii and P. kleemannella in having the white pattern much less metallic and its black edging fading more evenly into the ground colour. Imago seldom encountered at light, and more likely to be recorded in the larval stage, when mines are relatively easy to find where they are present. Larva mines leaves of Wych Elm, English Elm and Small-leaved Elm, over-wintering as a pupa in a cocoon.