Hantsmoths

Common in deciduous woodland and damp areas throughout much of the British Isles. In Hampshire formerly widespread and common, but in recent years barely annual, most frequently recorded in the south-east of the county and very erratic in appearance in the north and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 10-14 mm. Characterised by the comparatively clear cream-white antemedian band of ground colour which contrasts with the large metallic blue-grey ocellar patch and ferruginous apical area [Bradley]. Larva feeds on Sallow, living between leaves spun together with silk, over-wintering in a cocoon.