Hantsmoths

Local in fens, reed-beds, marshes, river-banks and other damp areas throughout much of the British Isles, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight mainly confined to the coast, principally at Titchfield Haven, with a scattering of inland records, along the Avon to the west of the New Forest and up the Test valley. Quite scarce on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 35-41 mm. Forewing rather narrow and pointed, the costa arched, termen crenulate, dorsum weakly lobed beyond narrowed base (MBGBI Vol 10). Larva feeds on Great Fen-sedge and Yellow Iris, over-wintering as an egg.