Hantsmoths

An immigrant species from southern Europe or even northern Africa, where it frequents open woodland habitats. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight occurs almost annually in ones and twos, however in 1949 it appeared in unprecedented numbers, and 2006, probably the most memorable 'migrant year' in recent memory, saw 26 records across our two counties: sightings can be expected to increase, and has potential to become at least temporarily established. Wingspan 78-90 mm. Very similar to the extremely rare White-lined Hawk-moth H. lineata, which see for differences. Larva feeds on Willowherb and Bedstraw, formerly unable to over-winter in significant numbers but this is likely to change due to the impact of the climate emergency.