Hantsmoths

Immigrant from mainland Europe, appearing in the south, with records north to Shetland. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight a fairly common migrant, which often produces a locally-bred generation. Larvae can be found on coastal shingle on Sticky Groundsel and sometimes on garden marigolds. Wingspan 34-42 mm. The most likely confusion species is Scarce Bordered Straw Helicoverpa armigera, which see for differences. Larva feeds on flowers of Common Restharrow, Ploughman's-spikenard, Scentless Mayweed and Sticky Groundsel, unable to over-winter in significant numbers.