Hantsmoths

Local, on chalk downland and open, grassy areas, discontinuously throughout much of England, Wales and southern Scotland. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight, sometimes abundant on the downs, but also in gardens amongst cultivated mint. Wingspan 15-18mm. Flies by day and night. The main confusion species is P. purpuralis which is larger and occurs less frequently in gardens. P. aurata has fewer cream spots on the forewing and the spot near the dorsal edge is either absent or small and broken into three parts. P. purpuralis has a rounded leading edge to the dorsal cream spot. Note that the purple scales apparent when freshly emerged quickly wear off and leave just a brown appearance. Larva feeds on Mint, Marjoram and Thyme, living within a silken tube or tent.