Photo © David G Green
Lesser Belle
Colobochyla salicalis
Checklist Number72.068 [B&F: 2472]
Verification
Record will require further evidence, at least a good photograph, unless CMR is aware recorder has confidence in identification
Classification
| Family: | Erebidae |
| Subfamily: | Toxocampinae |
| Genus: | Colobochyla |
| Species: | salicalis |
| Authority: | ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) |
Very rare immigrant (less than 10 previous UK records) from mainland Europe, appearing in the south. In Hampshire there is a single unsubstantiated record from Petersfield in 1877. The species has no other claim for inclusion in the county list, and its status is dubious. Not recorded from the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 26-32 mm. Could be confused with both Beautiful Hook-tip Laspeyria flexula, in which apex of forewing is falcate, and Lead Belle Scotopteryx mucronata, which has subterminal line obscurely pale except for dark apical streak (MBGBI Vol 10). Larva feeds on Aspen, no evidence of breeding in the UK.
VC12 North Hampshire
| Site | Date | Quantity | Recorder | Stage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petersfield (SU72) | 1877 | - | D W H Ffennell | Adult |