Hantsmoths

Nationally scarce (Na) in rough ground, rough grassland, hedgerows, scrub, open woodland and orchards in parts of Severn Valley. Locally common in Somerset, Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Herefordshire, with outlying records from Devon, Monmouth and Warwickshire. The origin of individuals which occur from time to time in the eastern home counties is uncertain; they may be of a near-extinct indigenous population, or possibly immigrants from northern France or Belgium (MBGBI Vol 9). Not recorded in Hampshire or on the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 36-42 mm. The dark form, f. melaleuca, is much more common in England than the typical form. Larva feeds on Dock, over-wintering as a pupa.