Hantsmoths

Nationally scarce (Nb) on rough ground throughout much of southern England, north to Yorkshire. Rather uncommon in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight, where recorded in most years, mainly from the western chalk and south-east. Wingspan 20-27 mm. Usually larger than Phycitodes binaevella, though a more delicate-looking insect, and characterised by the pale coloration, weak markings, and above all by the dark shadow along the outer-half of the costa of the forewing [Goater]. Larva feeds within flowerheads of Spear Thistle.