Hantsmoths

A common migrant from mainland Europe, appearing most frequently in southern coastal counties, less often inland and northwards to southern Scotland and the Inner Hebrides; recorded throughout Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 26-32 mm. The main confusion species are Pale Mottled Willow Paradrina clavipalpis and the rare migrant Dark Mottled Willow S. cilium, but combination of resting position, in which forewings are wrapped tightly around the body, and brownish centres to reniform and orbicular stigmata usually diagnostic. Larva feeds on Dandelion, Groundsel, Broad-leaved Dock, Curled Dock and Common Restharrow.