Hantsmoths

A rare Red Data Book species, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Restricted to birch woodland in Perthshire and Sutherland; recorded in recent years at Cannock Chase, Staffordshire, and in Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire. Not recorded in Hampshire or on the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 24-35 mm. Day-flying, the early stages may be sought during the winter months, but synthetic pheromone lures are used to attract males nowadays, and this has led to a marked increase in records of this species in recent years. Larva feeds within bark of Silver Birch and Downy Birch, over-wintering three times.