Hantsmoths

Status as a British species doubtful. One was taken at light in Oxfordshire and another in Cambridgeshire; one was reported from Co. Wicklow, Ireland; two were taken at sugar in Wicken Fen in 1891; also a female was taken near Reading. These last records, at least, seem reliable, but the specimens have not been traced, and some may have misidentified dark Dark Brocade B. adusta. Similar mistakes were common later, but occasional immigration would not be surprising. Not recorded in Hampshire or on the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 40-50 mm. Dark Brocade has a narrower forewing, with the termen curved throughout and lacking the reddish tinge in the stigmata (MBGBI Vol 10). It is unlikely that records of this species will be accepted unless the specimen is retained for examination. Larva feeds on herbaceous and woody plants such as Bramble, Honeysuckle, Sallow, Hawthorn, Blackthorn and Raspberry, no evidence of breeding in the UK.