Hantsmoths

Common in open woodland, woodland rides, birch woodland, gardens and scrub throughout much of the British Isles, but problems in identifying individuals to specific status mean that all Epirrita species are under-recorded. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread and common. Wingspan 40-44 mm. One of four very similar species of Epirrita found in the UK, which are generally separable only by dissection of the genitalia. Larva feeds on various broad-leaved trees and shrubs, including Silver Birch, Downy Birch, Alder and Heather, over-wintering as an egg.