Hantsmoths

Common and widespread, in sand-dunes, heaths, moorland, chalk downland, grassland, roadside verges and heaths throughout most of the British Isles, including Orkney and Shetland; throughout mainland Europe and Fennoscandia. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight common in suitable open, grassland habitat. However, it is a species of conservation concern and on the UK BAP list following a 1976-2014 abundance decline of over 50%, but which has stabilised over the past decade.

Wingspan 26-34 mm. Larva feeds on Sheep's Fescue, Red Fescue, Sweet Vernal-grass, Annual Meadow-grass, Cock's-foot, Mat-grass and Bristle Bent.