Hantsmoths

Common on grassland, heathland, marshes, gardens and a wide range of other habitats throughout much of the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread and common in all three vice-counties. Wingspan 35-43 mm. Superficially similar to other Acronicta species, it can usually be distinguished by the curved white mark near the rear edge of the forewing, which is normally present even in melanic specimens. Larva feeds on various herbaceous and woody plants, including Broad-leaved Dock, Common Sorrel, Ribwort Plantain, Greater Plantain, Water Mint, Bramble, Hop, Hawthorn and Burnet Rose, over-wintering as a pupa.