Hantsmoths

Nationally scarce (Nb). Local, on chalky ground and sand-dunes, mainly on the coast, throughout much of England, Wales and southern Scotland, and in parts of Ireland. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight known principally from West Wight but occurs elsewhere; Goater (1974) cites that Fassnidge referenced it from the New Forest, Shawford and it being fairly common on Farley Mount; Mackworth-Praed reckoned it to be 'rare' in Burley (NF). While these mainland records are mapped as such, they likely should be treated with caution. Wingspan 14-17mm. Distinguished from P. nigrata by larger size and straighter white cross-lines on the forewing. Larva feeds on Wild Thyme, living within a spinning.