Nine-spotted

Amata phegea

Checklist Number
72.0501 [B&F: 2070]

Verification
Record will require further evidence, at least a good photograph, unless CMR is aware recorder has confidence in identification

Classification

Family:Erebidae
Subfamily:Arctiinae
Genus:Amata
Species:phegea
Authority:(Linnaeus, 1758)

Very rare immigrant from mainland Europe, appearing in southern England. One was in Essex in 2000. Not recorded in Hampshire or on the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 37-42 mm. There are several very similar European species, so the specimen should be retained for confirmation of identification. Larva feeds on herbaceous plants such as White Dead-nettle, Red Dead-nettle and Dandelion.