Hantsmoths

Local in coniferous woodland, plantations, heathland and gardens throughout much of south-eastern England. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight a species which has spread rapidly since the middle of the 20th Century, but has declined since, although still widespread but never common wherever there are pine trees. Wingspan 72-80 mm. Unmistakable, there are three or four black dashes in disc, and the forewing fringe is chequered. Larva feeds mainly on Scots Pine and Norway Spruce, but also on Maritime Pine and Cedar-of-Lebanon, over-wintering as a pupa.