Hantsmoths

Previously included in Appendix B of the British List based on three unconfirmed specimens alleged to have been taken in the New Forest and Kent in the 19th and early 20th centuries. In Hampshire, one individual in very fresh condition, now in the British Museum (Natural History) London, is labelled 'New Forest, 1905, E Morris', with no further details as to the circumstances of its origin (author's note: I will try and get an image of this specimen!). Promoted to the main list on the basis of a confirmed (dissected) female taken at light by Peter Smith at Wintersett CP, West Yorkshire on 3 September 2022 (Atropos 72, 2023).
Wingspan 29-32 mm. Given the variability of Nycteola individuals, no records of this species will be accepted unless the specimen is retained for examination.
A widespread species in Europe, where the larva feeds on sallow and willow.