2021 Annual Report for: Noctuidae / Noctuinae

For species seen in 2021 that had less than or equal to 100 records, full details are included; for more common species, the earliest, latest and highest count by vice-county are shown. The narrative for each species is taken from the main Hantsmoths website, and it is possible that some information on abundance and occurrence can get out of date, as it is impossible to keep up with all changes; however it should give a good introduction to each species. The tables in each species account summarise the previous status, and that for the current year.

For the maps, all records prior to 2021 are shown by a blue dot (the larger the dot, the more recent), with the current year's records shown in red. As previous records are superimposed on any report for 2021, new sites have greater emphasis (i.e. will show as 'more red').

In the species accounts, an asterisk next to a location indicates a new 10km square record; earliest ever dates are highlighted in orange, and latest ever in red. Initials in the species accounts refer to the recorders listed here. Please get in touch if you identify any omissions or errors, in particular if you have records that have yet to be submitted. Details of how to submit records can be found here.

73.307 [B&F: 2119] Pearly Underwing Peridroma saucia (Hübner, [1808]) - Migrant

Common immigrant from mainland Europe, appearing throughout the British Isles, in some years arriving in sufficient numbers to breed in very small numbers. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight a fairly common migrant throughout, most common near the coast. Wingspan 45-56 mm. Thorax with longitudinal crest, often silvery grey. Larva feeds on Dandelion, Dock and Red Clover, causing sufficient damage to be a serious pest in some areas, unable to over-winter in significant numbers.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1021658019512020
111019123819492020
121029619512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10782
11364

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Freshwater, one, 09 Sep; two, 06 Oct (DCoo); Brook, one, 06 Oct (DWes & REJ); Bonchurch, one, 17 May; one, 27 Jun; one, 13 Jul; one, 16 Oct (JHa);

VC11: Fareham, one, 13 Sep (MLO); one, to light, male, 04 Sep (KJW); Southsea, four, 24 Sep (JRL det. )

73.312 [B&F: 2080] Square-spot Dart Euxoa obelisca ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Nb

Nationally scarce (Nb) on sea cliffs and rocky hillsides, along the coasts of southern and western Britain. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight probably still frequent on chalk cliffs on the south side of the Isle of Wight, between the Needles and Ventnor. Wingspan 35-40 mm. The most likely confusion species is White-line Dart E. tritici, but in Square-spot Dart the region beyond the postmedian line is almost without markings and nearly always lacks any trace of the wedge-shaped marks which are so often a feature of White-line Dart (MBGBI Vol 9), however some individuals can be separated only by dissection of the genitalia. Larva feeds on herbaceous plants such as Common Rock-rose and Lady's Bedstraw, over-wintering as an egg or small larva.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
107613619002020
111120062006

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1010112

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Totland, one, 30 Aug; one, 31 Aug; one, 02 Sep; one, 04 Sep; one, 25 Sep; one, 29 Sep (RTer); Freshwater, one, 03 Sep; two, 09 Sep; one, 12 Sep (DCoo); Freshwater Bay, one, 30 Aug (SDav)

73.313 [B&F: 2081] White-line Dart Euxoa tritici (Linnaeus, 1761) - Common

Common on sand-dunes, sea cliffs, heathland, moorland and downland 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 found primarily on the sandy coasts of vice-counties 10 and 11, with a smaller, darker form frequent on the heaths of the New Forest and north-eastern Hampshire; rare elsewhere. Wingspan 28-40 mm. The most likely confusion species are Square-spot Dart E. obelisca and Coast Dart E. cursoria, which see for differences. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Common Mouse-ear, Common Chickweed, Greater Stitchwort and Hedge Bedstraw, over-wintering as an egg or small larva.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1029718562011
11694357419512020
12786719512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11551
12111

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC11: Furzehill, NF, one, 11 Aug; one, 12 Aug (SLoa); Dibden Purlieu, one, 09 Aug (RAC); Swaythling, Southampton, one, 24 Aug (MEdg); Hengistbury Head, one, 14 Jul (SDar);

VC12: Whitehill, one, 16 Aug (ASto)

73.314 [B&F: 2082] Garden Dart Euxoa nigricans (Linnaeus, 1761) - Common

Local in gardens, allotments and farmland, and on downland and rough ground throughout the British Isles, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight there are still scattered records, but numbers have declined drastically recently, and records will no longer be accepted without convincing evidence. Wingspan 32-40 mm. Some forms can be confused with White-line Dart E. tritici, but that is a neater, more sharply marked insect; the presence of the claviform stigma, as well as the relatively longer and narrower forewing, should preclude confusion with Square-spot Rustic Xestia xanthographa (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Clover, Dock and Plantain, over-wintering as an egg or small larva.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1012319681997
1115313319492019
12845619512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
12111

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC12: Stockbridge Down, one, 10 Aug (JMor)

73.316 [B&F: 2084] Light Feathered Rustic Agrotis cinerea ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Nationally Scarce

Nationally scarce (Nb) on calcareous grassland, quarries, sea cliffs and shingle beaches in parts of England. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight it still occurs on the chalk downland of the Island and along the boundary between vice-counties 11 and 12, and also on Portsdown Hill above Portsmouth, but is much less common than formerly. Wingspan 33-40 mm. Distinguished from all other Agrostis species by the dentate ante- and post-median fasciae and inconspicuous stigmata. Larva feeds on Wild Thyme.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10441818002020
11667818002019
124610519002016

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10111

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Cranmore, one, 12 May (CHic)

73.317 [B&F: 2089] Heart & Dart Agrotis exclamationis (Linnaeus, 1758) - Common

Common often abundant, in all types of habitat throughout the British Isles. Widespread and very common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 35-44 mm. The presence of the dark mark on the patagia distinguishes Heart and Dart from the occasional female Heart and Club A. clavis which resembles it (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on herbaceous plants such as Ribwort Plantain and Fat-hen.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1021232599319512020
112286522335219512020
1262665659319002020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10250207498
11737364456
12273188854

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 26 May, 1 (RTer) Latest: Appley, 14 Jul, 1 (DFai) Max count: Totland, 19 Jun, 98 (RTer)

VC11: Earliest: Ashley Heath, 06 Jun, 3 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 07 Jun, 13 (JRL) Max count: Portsmouth, 04 Jul, 56 (IRT)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 26 Jun, 1 (CMap) Latest: Farnborough, 26 Jul, 3 (KBW) Max count: Whitehill, 16 Jun, 54 (ASto)

73.319 [B&F: 2087] Turnip Moth Agrotis segetum ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common

Common in gardens, farmland, parkland, oak woodland and sand-dunes throughout the British Isles. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 32-42 mm. Underwing pearly white with darker veins, suffused grey in dark examples, a feature shared amongst its congeners only by the larger Pearly Underwing Peridroma saucia and Dark Sword-grass A. ipsilon, which see. Larva feeds on roots and lower stems of cabbages and various root crops, causing sufficient damage to be a serious pest in some areas.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1042163419512020
11589779432002020
121394203519512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1017233
111832194
1271965

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Freshwater, 09 Jun, 1 (DCoo) Latest: Seaview, 27 Jul, 1 (J&SMas) Max count: Bonchurch, 02 Jul, 3 (JHa)

VC11: Earliest: Ashley Heath, 06 Jun, 1 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 24 Sep, 1 (JRL) Max count: Totton, 30 Aug, 4 (LHan)

VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 02 Jul, 5 (TJN, LFom, HEdm) Latest: Farnborough, 04 Sep, 1 (KBW) Max count: Cholderton, 02 Jul, 5 (TJN, LFom, HEdm)

73.320 [B&F: 2088] Heart & Club Agrotis clavis (Hufnagel, 1766) - Common

Common on chalk downland, dry open areas and gardens, and in coastal sand-dunes throughout much of England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight fairly common, although not as much so as the closely related Heart & Dart, mainly on the coast and on the chalk. Wingspan 35-40 mm. The main confusion species is Heart & Dart A. exclamationis, which has a characteristic dark mark on the patagia, lacking in Heart & Club. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Broad-leaved Dock, Wild Carrot and Fat-hen.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10652285719812020
1164391491319492020
122341861119512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1010140621
112144759
1211341917

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 19 Jun, 12 (RTer) Latest: Nettlestone, 28 Jun, 1 (JHam) Max count: Totland, 25 Jun, 21 (RTer)

VC11: Earliest: Ashley Heath, 30 Jun, 1 (SDut) Latest: Pennington, 29 Jun, 2 (RFC) Max count: Fareham, 01 Jul, 9 (IMcP)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 26 Jun, 1 (CMap) Latest: Farnborough, 10 Jul, 1 (KBW) Max count: Cholderton, 02 Jul, 17 (TJN, LFom, HEdm)

73.322 [B&F: 2085] Archer's Dart Agrotis vestigialis (Hufnagel, 1766) - Local

Local on sand-dunes, all around the coasts of the British Isles, and on heaths inland in southern England. In Hampshire frequent on the sand-dunes of Hayling Island, less so in other coastal localities; still found in small numbers in the New Forest and on the eastern heaths of North Hampshire. There have only been three recent record from the Isle of Wight, in 1995, 2011 and 2013. Wingspan 30-40 mm. The most distinctive and easily recognised of the Agrostis species. Larva feeds on herbaceous plants such as Lady's Bedstraw, Hedge Bedstraw, Heath Bedstraw and Greater Stitchwort.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1010219092013
1114323019492020
12354519512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11211
12221

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC11: Avon Heath Country Park, one, 17 Aug (JFal); Woodlands, NF, present, 09 Aug (RBW);

VC12: Whitehill, one, 11 Aug; one, 20 Aug (ASto)

73.324 [B&F: 2090] Crescent Dart Agrotis trux (Hübner, [1824]) - Local

Local on sea cliffs and rocky areas by the sea, from the Isle of Wight westwards to north Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight found mainly on the coasts of the Island, where it is locally common. Very rare on the mainland, but occasional wanderers have been found some distance inland. Wingspan 35-42 mm. Quite variable, with specimens from the Isle of Wight larger and paler than elsewhere in Britain; resembles Turnip Moth A. segetum and Heart and Club A. clavis, as well as the rare immigrant Great Dart A. crassa. Larva feeds on Rock Sea-spurrey and Thrift.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10388124418562020
11191419742017
121119621962

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
102510934
11111

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Totland, one, 22 Jun; one, 24 Jun; one, 25 Jun; two, 21 Jul; two, 22 Jul; two, 24 Jul; four, 25 Jul; three, 26 Jul; two, 27 Jul; one, 27 Aug (RTer); Freshwater, one, 26 Jun; one, 02 Jul; two, 18 Jul (DCoo); Afton Marsh, one, 03 Jul (PBar); Freshwater Bay, four, 29 Jun; 20, 15 Jul; five, 04 Aug; one, 26 Aug (SDav); eight, 26 Jun; nine, 30 Jun; 34, 09 Jul; Freshwater, one, 08 Jul; one, 06 Jul; one, 06 Jul (PBar); Bonchurch, one, 08 Oct (IOut);

VC11: Botley, one, 19 Oct (SLB det. MJW)

73.325 [B&F: 2092] Shuttle-shaped Dart Agrotis puta (Hübner, [1803]) - Local

Common often abundant, in gardens, farmland, grassland, heathland and open woodland throughout England and Wales. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 30-32 mm. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Dandelion, Knotgrass, and several species of dock.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101431435419512020
1124146742252002020
1257742074219512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1015543716
11898212422
1233682018

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 27 May, 1 (RTer) Latest: Seaview, 25 Jul, 1 (J&SMas) Max count: Bonchurch, 10 May, 16 (JHa)

VC11: Earliest: Ashley Heath, 09 May, 2 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 07 Jun, 4 (JRL) Max count: Totton, 15 Aug, 22 (LHan)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 14 May, 2 (CMap) Latest: Farnborough, 26 Aug, 1 (KBW) Max count: Alton, 03 Jun, 18 (BCA)

73.327 [B&F: 2091] Dark Sword-grass Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel, 1766) - Migrant

Common immigrant from mainland Europe, appearing throughout the British Isles, in some years arriving in sufficient numbers to breed in small numbers. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight a common immigrant, which is widely distributed throughout in some years. Wingspan 40-55 mm. Has a distinctive set of arrow-shaped darts, one pointing outwards from the reniform stigma, with two smaller ones facing inwards near the margin. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, but unable to over-winter in significant numbers.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10625152619512020
113557485719492020
1262774419492020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1048625
11931033
1215162

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 21 Jun, 1 (RTer) Latest: Sandown, 31 Aug, 1 (JMar) Max count: Ryde, 09 Oct, 5 (IGam)

VC11: Earliest: Furzehill, NF, 28 Jul, 1 (SLoa) Latest: Browndown Coastal Ranges, 08 Oct, 1 (MLO, ADT, DWal, KJW) Max count: Blackfield, 04 Aug, 3 (SJJ)

VC12: Earliest: Chilbolton, 21 Feb, 1 (GCE) Latest: Alton, 19 Sep, 1 (CJP) Max count: Anna Valley, Andover, 11 Aug, 2 (TJN, LFom)

73.328 [B&F: 2098] Flame Axylia putris (Linnaeus, 1761) - Common

Common on farmland, downland and heathland, and in hedgerows, woodland edges and gardens throughout the British Isles. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 30-38 mm. Larva feeds on a variety of herbaceous plants, including Stinging Nettle, White Dead-nettle, Hedge Bedstraw, Hound's-tongue, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10830377019512020
1169321575819512020
122661850719482020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1011330314
111492438
126613012

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 19 Jun, 3 (RTer) Latest: Shanklin Upper Chine, 18 Jul, 2 (IOut) Max count: Haseley Manor, 13 Jul, 14 (IOut)

VC11: Earliest: Sandleheath, NF, 08 Jul, 2 (DBrc) Latest: Pennington, 21 Jul, 1 (RFC) Max count: Furzehill, NF, 08 Jul, 8 (SLoa)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 26 Jun, 1 (CMap) Latest: Farnborough, 18 Jul, 1 (KBW) Max count: Burghclere, 17 Jul, 12 (PBlk)

73.329 [B&F: 2102] Flame Shoulder Ochropleura plecta (Linnaeus, 1761) - Common

Common in a wide variety of habitats, from gardens to wetlands throughout the British Isles. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 28-34 mm. Could be confused with the much rarer Radford's Flame Shoulder O. leucogaster, which see. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Groundsel, Ribwort Plantain, Lady's Bedstraw, Hedge Bedstraw and Heath Bedstraw, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101796613519512020
1120431579402002020
1260252265419512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1014055937
11613145125
1227069751

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 28 May, 2 (RTer) Latest: Seaview, 02 Aug, 1 (J&SMas) Max count: Totland, 01 Sep, 37 (RTer)

VC11: Earliest: Ashley Heath, 06 Jun, 1 (SDut) Latest: Browndown Coastal Ranges, 27 Aug, 6 (MLO, ADT, DWal, KJW) Max count: Lee, nr Nursling, 21 Aug, 25 (CTha)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 28 May, 1 (CMap) Latest: Hawley Meadows, 22 Aug, 1 (BDal) Max count: Burghclere, 29 Aug, 51 (PBlk)

73.330 [B&F: 2102a] Radford's Flame Shoulder Ochropleura leucogaster (Freyer, [1831]) - Vagrant/Accidental

Rare immigrant from southern Europe, appearing in southern England. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight first recorded at Lepe on the mainland in October 2006 and at Ventnor on the Island in September 2008. From 2015 it has been reported annually, particularly on the island, and 2021 saw a record 42 individuals.

Wingspan 34-37 mm. Resembles Flame Shoulder O. plecta but the forewings are proportionately longer and paler than in O. plecta with an indistinct line of subterminal spots. O. leucogaster has smaller orbicular and reniform stigmata, straighter and more compact 'flame shoulder' running along the upper edge of the forewing to just beyond the reniform stigma, much purer white and larger hindwings with a whitish fringe. The deeply coloured maroon metathorax contrasts sharply with the silky white hairs which cover the anterior abdominal segments and contrast strongly with the dark red thoracic hairs. The abdomen itself is very pale brown, unlike the darker earth-brown colour of O. plecta (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on Common Bird's-foot Trefoil, no evidence of breeding in the UK.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10354020082020
1110920062019

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10387411
11431

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Totland, one, 01 Oct; one, 22 Oct; one, 24 Oct; one, 25 Oct; two, 27 Oct; one, 20 Nov (RTer); Freshwater, one, 07 Oct; one, 05 Nov; one, 09 Nov; one, 10 Nov; two, 13 Nov (DCoo); Freshwater Bay, four, 13 Oct (SDav); Brook, one, 29 Sep; one, 01 Oct; 11, 06 Oct; one, 07 Oct (DWes & REJ); Wheelers Bay, two, 08 Oct (ABut); Bonchurch, three, 08 Oct (IOut); two, 04 Oct; seven, 13 Oct; one, 14 Oct; three, 16 Oct; three, 30 Oct; one, 31 Oct; five, 08 Nov; one, 09 Nov; one, 12 Nov (JHa); Shanklin, one, 06 Oct; one, 09 Oct; one, 09 Nov; one, 16 Nov (IOut); Ryde, two, 09 Oct; three, 10 Oct; one, 11 Oct; one, 12 Oct; one, 15 Oct; one, 16 Oct; one, 18 Oct (IGam);

VC11: Woodlands, NF, present, 08 Nov (RBW); Fareham, one, to light, 18 Nov (KJW); Burton, nr Christchurch, one, 01 Nov (JStw det. MDea); Eastoke, Hayling Island, one, 12 Nov (STho)

73.332 [B&F: 2122] Purple Clay Diarsia brunnea ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common

Common in broad-leaved woodland and wooded heathland throughout much of the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight much less common than formerly; in the summer of 1892, for instance, at Brockenhurst it was stated to be a continual pest at sugar. It occurs in deciduous woodland, and nowadays it is usually recorded as single specimens. Wingspan 36-45 mm. Distinguished from female Barred Chestnut D. dahlii by the darker wavy band between the postmedian and subterminal lines, the absence of the pale subterminal line which is characteristic of that species, and the blacker quadrate mark between the reniform and orbicular stigmata. Pale individuals could be mistaken for northern Ingrailed Clay D. mendica, but these are often more extensively orange-tinted and marbled, and slightly smaller (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on Foxglove, Bilberry, Heather, Sallow, Bramble, Silver Birch and Downy Birch.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10617618922020
11906102019512020
1237644119512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10463
1117234
129102

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Freshwater, one, 05 Jul (PBar); Shanklin, three, 29 Jun; one, 02 Jul; one, 13 Jul (IOut);

VC11: Furzehill, NF, one, 21 Jun (SLoa); Setthorns Inclosure, NF, one, 23 Jun (PBar); Ashurst, one, 01 Jul (RFC); Romsey, one, 03 Jul (NRJ); Winter Down Copse, Little Somborne, one, 30 Jun (GCE); Chandlers Ford, two, 28 Jun (BEll); Botley Wood, one, 10 Sep (RJD, MLO, DWal, KJW det. KJW); Wickham, two, to light, 09 Jul (KCok, RJD, MLO, ADT, KJW); Shirrell Heath, one, 15 Jun (LEdg); Wickham, one, 04 Jul; one, 06 Jul; one, 07 Jul; two, 08 Jul; one, 15 Jul; one, 21 Jul (JRDS); West Walk, four, 23 Jul (RJD, MLO, ADT, DWal, KJW); Hurn, one, 03 Jul (MJef);

VC12: Cholderton, one, 02 Jul (TJN, LFom, HEdm); Crawley, one, 12 Jul (GCE); Burghclere, one, 17 Jul (PBlk); Kempshott, two, 14 Aug (GAH); Great Haughurst Copse, Axmansford, one, 08 Jul (ACB, GJD); Pamber Forest, one, 28 Jun; one, 05 Jul (GJD); Hammer Vale, one, 19 Jul (ASwa)

73.333 [B&F: 2120] Ingrailed Clay Diarsia mendica (Fabricius, 1775) - Local

Common in woodland, gardens and heathland throughout the British Isles. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 28-36 mm. Very variable, and can be confused with a number of other species, but general pattern sufficiently distinct to enable identification in most cases; a useful field mark, sometimes absent, is the small black dot between the orbicular stigma and dorsum, a feature shared by the superficially similar Small Square-spot D. rubi. Larva feeds on Primrose, Hawthorn, Hazel, Blackthorn and other woody plants.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10697196019812020
112951611219482020
121465321119512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
103711830
119821719
12571248

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Freshwater, 20 Jun, 1 (DCoo) Latest: Briddlesford, 09 Jun, 2 (JRB) Max count: Osborne Valley Walk, 15 Jun, 30 (IOut)

VC11: Earliest: Fordingbridge, 28 May, 1 (SCT) Latest: Pennington, 27 Jun, 2 (RFC) Max count: Winter Down Copse, Little Somborne, 02 Jun, 19 (GCE)

VC12: Earliest: Little Somborne, 24 Jun, 1 (GCE) Latest: Whitehill, 16 Jun, 1 (ASto) Max count: Crawley, 05 Jun, 8 (GCE)

73.334 [B&F: 2123] Small Square-spot Diarsia rubi (Vieweg, 1790) - Common

Common in damp woodland and grassland, gardens and rough meadows throughout the British Isles, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 30-38 mm. A useful field mark is the very small black dot between the orbicular stigma and dorsum, but there is no reliable way to distinguish this species from Fen Square-spot D. florida, and the two taxa may best be considered conspecific. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Dandelion and Dock.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10544182819592020
1161861622119472020
122060806819502020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10308610
1120641210
1212334422

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 19 Jun, 4 (RTer) Latest: Briddlesford, 07 Sep, 4 (JRB) Max count: Shanklin, 08 Sep, 10 (IOut)

VC11: Earliest: Fordingbridge, 27 Aug, 1 (SCT) Latest: Browndown Coastal Ranges, 27 Aug, 1 (MLO, ADT, DWal, KJW) Max count: Broughton, 06 Sep, 10 (GCE)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 29 Aug, 1 (CMap) Latest: Frensham, 22 Sep, 1 (PHal) Max count: Kempshott, 29 Aug, 22 (GAH)

73.336 [B&F: 2139] Red Chestnut Cerastis rubricosa ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common

Common in broad-leaved woodland, scrub, gardens and moorland throughout the British Isles. Widespread and still reasonably common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 32-38 mm. Straight costa and spring emergence eliminates all but White-marked C. leucographa, which differs most obviously in pale orbicular and reniform stigmata. Larva feeds on various herbaceous and woody plants, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10726619512020
111287239119512020
1222027519512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10111
118123

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Bonchurch, one, 31 Mar (JHa);

VC11: Holmsley Woods, NF, two, field observation, 14 May; Goatspen, NF, three, field observation, 15 May (JNew); Burley, NF, two, 17 May (NDP); Botley Wood, one, 09 Apr; one, 09 Apr (RJD, MLO, ADT, DWal, KJW); Shirrell Heath, one, 02 May (LEdg); Hurn, one, 08 May (MJef); Sway, one, 11 May (DMui)

73.338 [B&F: 2118] True Lover's Knot Lycophotia porphyrea ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common

Common on heathland, moorland and in gardens where heather is grown throughout the British Isles; very common on the heaths of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and increasingly recorded from gardens containing heather. Wingspan 26-34 mm. Unmistakable. Larva feeds on Heather and Bell Heather.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1025857719002020
1136461422319512020
12678312619512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
109102
118316413
123811215

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 22 Jul, 1 (RTer) Latest: Shanklin Upper Chine, 21 Jul, 2 (IOut) Max count: Shanklin Upper Chine, 21 Jul, 2 (IOut)

VC11: Earliest: Avon Heath Country Park, 03 Aug, 4 (SDut) Latest: Pennington, 21 Jul, 1 (RFC) Max count: Furzehill, NF, 29 Jun, 13 (SLoa)

VC12: Earliest: Burghclere, 17 Jul, 1 (PBlk) Latest: Farnborough, 01 Aug, 1 (KBW) Max count: Whitehill, 19 Jul, 15 (ASto)

73.342 [B&F: 2107] Large Yellow Underwing Noctua pronuba (Linnaeus, 1758) - Common

Common often abundant, in a wide range of habitats, including grassland, gardens, woodland and moorland throughout the British Isles. Widespread and extremely common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 50-60 mm. Although variable, with a number of distinct forms, Large Yellow Underwing is usually unmistakable, although a pitfall for the unwary is the assignment of occasional small specimens to the extremely rare and declining Lunar Yellow Underwing N. orbona — both share a small black apical streak, but Large Yellow Underwing lacks the diagnostic black discal spot in the hindwing, which can be seen by gently lifting up the forewing with forceps. Larva feeds various grasses and herbaceous plants.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1031262896119512020
11341262580882002020
12959111323419482020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10289172553
111399682960
126605487122

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 20 Jun, 1 (RTer) Latest: Bembridge, 16 Jul, 1 (JHam) Max count: Newport, 02 Sep, 53 (DPl)

VC11: Earliest: Avon Heath Country Park, 17 Aug, 2 (JFal) Latest: Eastoke, Hayling Island, 17 Oct, 1 (STho) Max count: Romsey, 07 Sep, 60 (NRJ)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 26 Jun, 1 (CMap) Latest: Farnborough, 14 Oct, 3 (KBW) Max count: Basingstoke, 09 Sep, 122 (MJW)

73.343 [B&F: 2110] Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing Noctua fimbriata (Schreber, 1759) - Common

Common in broad-leaved woodland, parkland, heathland and gardens throughout the British Isles. Widespread and fairly common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 50-58 mm. Variable, but unmistakable. Larva feeds on various deciduous trees, including Birch, Sallow and Sycamore.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10605111119512020
1172201112619482020
122236416619482020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1049805
1126839615
121312158

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 21 Jul, 1 (RTer) Latest: Briddlesford, 07 Sep, 1 (JRB) Max count: Newport, 15 Jul, 5 (DPl)

VC11: Earliest: Ashley Heath, 03 Sep, 2 (SDut) Latest: Browndown Coastal Ranges, 27 Aug, 1 (MLO, ADT, DWal, KJW) Max count: Romsey, 14 Aug, 15 (NRJ)

VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 10 Sep, 1 (TJN) Latest: Farnborough, 07 Sep, 1 (KBW) Max count: Whitehill, 26 Jul, 8 (ASto)

73.344 [B&F: 2108] Lunar Yellow Underwing Noctua orbona (Hufnagel, 1766) - Nationally Scarce

Nationally scarce (Nb) in dry sandy areas, heaths and open woodland, discontinuously in parts of Britain, greatly declined, a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In Hampshire there are strong colonies in the Test valley, at Porton Down and Cholderton, both on the Wiltshire/Hampshire border, and the moth is recorded occasionally elsewhere, but often erroneously. There have been no Isle of Wight reports since 1894. Wingspan 38-45 mm. Distinguished from Lesser Yellow Underwing N. comes by its narrower forewing and straighter costa, and by the presence of a black mark towards the apex. Distinguished from small examples of Large Yellow Underwing N. pronuba by the presence of a curved discal spot on the hindwing which gives this species its vernacular name.

Please note that no records of this species from new sites outside of established colonies at Cholderton and Porton Down will be accepted without photographic evidence of the hindwing

Larva feeds on various grasses and herbaceous plants, including Sheep's-fescue, Wavy Hair-grass, Cock's-foot, Common Couch, Reed Canary-grass, Meadow Buttercup, Creeping Cinquefoil, Cowslip and Chickweed.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
107018001894
11392518002020
12447618002019

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11331
12221

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC11: Broughton Down, one, 12 Jun (MBot); Broughton, one, 13 Jun; Crawley, one, 14 Sep (GCE);

VC12: Cholderton, one, 10 Sep (TJN); Barton Stacey, one, 02 Sep (GCE)

73.345 [B&F: 2109] Lesser Yellow Underwing Noctua comes Hübner, [1813] - Common

Common in a wide range of habitats, including gardens, downland, heathland, woodland and moorland throughout the British Isles. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 38-48 mm. Could be confused with the much rarer Lunar Yellow Underwing N. orbona, which see. Larva feeds on Stinging Nettle, Broad-leaved Dock and Foxglove.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10971227419572020
1115366449002002020
1234151051419492020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1011022011
11553129618
1225367221

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 21 Jul, 1 (RTer) Latest: Seaview, 31 Jul, 1 (J&SMas) Max count: Shanklin Upper Chine, 21 Jul, 11 (IOut)

VC11: Earliest: Ashley Heath, 12 Aug, 1 (SDut) Latest: Eastoke, Hayling Island, 16 Oct, 1 (STho) Max count: Marchwood, 06 Sep, 19 (CTha)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 26 Jun, 1 (CMap) Latest: Farnborough, 26 Oct, 1 (KBW) Max count: Basingstoke, 06 Sep, 21 (MJW)

73.346 [B&F: 2112] Least Yellow Underwing Noctua interjecta Hübner, [1803] - Common

Common in hedgerows, gardens, fens, sand-dunes and other open areas throughout England and Wales. Widespread and fairly common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 31-36 mm. The least frequent of the five common Noctua species. Larva feeds on various grasses, and herbaceous plants such as Meadowsweet, Common Mallow and Hawthorn.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1011814219732020
111906252619512020
1257680919002020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10661
1138433
1217215

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Totland, one, 25 Jul (RTer); Newport, one, 12 Aug; one, 24 Aug (DPl); Haseley Manor, one, 19 Jul; Shanklin, one, 18 Jul; one, field observation, 11 Aug (IOut);

VC11: Marchwood, two, 15 Aug (TDCh); Woodlands, NF, present, 24 Jul (RBW); Totton, one, 20 Jul; one, 21 Jul; one, 10 Aug (LHan); Lee, nr Nursling, one, 21 Aug (CTha); Woodley, one, 10 Aug (NBin); Broughton, one, 15 Aug; one, 15 Aug; Stockbridge Down NT, one, 18 Jul; Crawley, one, 04 Aug (GCE); Stanbrige Earls, one, 24 Aug (JRM); Swaythling, Southampton, two, 27 Jul; one, 10 Sep; one, 17 Sep (MEdg); Valley Park, Chandlers Ford, one, 01 Aug; one, 14 Aug (KArb); Allbrook, one, 03 Aug; one, 14 Aug; one, 20 Aug (SIng); Winchester, one, 25 Jul (THW); Lee-on-Solent, one, 17 Aug (IHrg); Fareham, one, 09 Aug; one, 17 Aug (MLO); Botley, one, 10 Aug; one, 12 Aug (SLB); Wickham, two, 31 Jul; one, 03 Aug; three, 11 Aug (JRDS); Muscliffe, one, 24 Aug (SDar); Hurn, one, 06 Aug (MJef); Tuckton, Christchurch, one, 11 Aug (APar); Hengistbury Head, one, 11 Aug (MJef); New Milton, two, 20 Aug (RPH); Milford on Sea, one, 09 Aug (MMcM); Pennington, one, 18 Aug; one, 20 Aug (RFC); Browndown Coastal Ranges, one, 20 Aug (RJD, MLO, DWal, KJW);

VC12: Cholderton, one, 02 Jul (TJN, LFom, HEdm); Wherwell, one, 30 Aug (GCE); Goodworth Clatford, one, 11 Aug (JMor); Little Somborne, one, 13 Aug; Barton Stacey, one, 29 Aug; one, 29 Aug; one, 29 Aug (GCE); Ecchinswell, one, 17 Jul; one, 11 Aug (MJN); Mapledurwell, one, 11 Aug (MBot); Selborne, one, 10 Aug (CJP); Whitehill, one, 26 Jul; one, 14 Aug; one, 20 Aug (ASto); Grayshott, five, 28 Aug (THard); Blackwater, one, 11 Aug; one, 14 Aug (BDal)

73.347 [B&F: 2110a] Langmaid's Yellow Underwing Noctua janthina [Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775 - Recent colonist

An immigrant from mainland Europe, appearing in southern England, and now resident in small numbers along the south coast. First recorded in Britain by John Langmaid at Southsea, Hampshire, on 9 July 2001. Steadily increasing in frequency throughout the first two decades of the 21st century, it is now accepted as likely to be a low-density breeding species in parts of Hampshire and Isle of Wight. Wingspan 34-40 mm. Very similar to Lesser Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing N. janthe, from which separable in some cases only by dissection of genitalia. Set specimens of N. janthina are separable by black outer border of hindwing, which on N. janthe either stops before the costa or extends diffusely along it, while on N. janthina, it is generally broader, and extends along costa without a gap, so the overall effect is of a black hindwing with a yellow spot. On underside of forewing of N. janthe, the distal edge of black area is usually distinctly toothed. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants. Some authorities dispute whether janthina is a separate species, as there is evidence of hybridisation on the continent.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10567820062020
1126634020012020
126620192020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10551
1116225
12331

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Rew Down, Ventnor, one, hind-wing examined: also another five probably also this species., 13 Jul; one, another 4 probably also this species, 15 Jul; one, another five probably also this species, 13 Jul; Bonchurch, one, 10 Jul; one, 12 Jul (PBar);

VC11: Romsey, one, 06 Aug (NRJ); Swaythling, Southampton, one, 19 Aug (MEdg); Valley Park, Chandlers Ford, two, 04 Aug (KArb); Brownwich cliffs, five, all checked (KJW 3, RJD 2), 16 Jul (MLO, RJD, KJW); Fareham, one, 04 Aug; two, confirmed by Keith Wheeler, 12 Aug (ADT); one, 20 Jul (MLO det. KJW); one, 13 Jul; one, to light, 01 Aug (KJW); Botley, one, 20 Aug (SLB); Portsmouth, one, 07 Jul; one, 14 Jul; one, 19 Jul; one, 11 Aug; one, 20 Aug (IRT); Hurn*, one, 19 Jul (MJef);

VC12: Kempshott, one, 03 Aug; one, 15 Aug (GAH); Pamber Forest*, one, 04 Sep (GJD)

73.348 [B&F: 2111] Lesser Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing Noctua janthe (Borkhausen, 1792) - Common

Common in a wide range of habitats, including woodland, hedgerows, gardens, heathland and moorland throughout the British Isles. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 34-44 mm. Could be confused with the much rarer Langmaid's Yellow Underwing N. janthina, which see. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including White Dead-nettle, Broad-leaved Dock and Scentless Mayweed.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101078694319772020
1111320456752002020
1232681988419502020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1011067661
11564293734
12252110266

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 21 Jul, 2 (RTer) Latest: Seaview, 18 Aug, 2 (J&SMas) Max count: Totland, 28 Aug, 61 (RTer)

VC11: Earliest: Avon Heath Country Park, 17 Aug, 3 (JFal) Latest: Browndown Coastal Ranges, 27 Aug, 25 (MLO, ADT, DWal, KJW) Max count: Swaythling, Southampton, 24 Aug, 34 (MEdg)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 14 Aug, 2 (CMap) Latest: Farnborough, 04 Sep, 1 (KBW) Max count: Burghclere, 14 Aug, 66 (PBlk)

73.352 [B&F: 2138] Green Arches Anaplectoides prasina ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common

Common in broad-leaved, especially damp, woodland throughout the British Isles; widely distributed in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, but rarely numerous, with no evidence of any real decline. Wingspan 43-53 mm. Larva feeds on numerous herbaceous and woody plants, including Primrose, Knotgrass, Sallow, Dock, Honeysuckle, Bramble and Bilberry.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1015826518562020
1122418219492020
1234845919512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10375
11541
12221

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Shanklin, five, 29 Jun; one, 02 Jul; Shanklin Upper Chine, one, worn, 18 Jul (IOut);

VC11: Woodlands, NF, present, 29 Jun (RBW); Ashurst, one, 01 Jul (RFC); Winter Down Copse, Little Somborne, one, 30 Jun (GCE); West Meon, one, 02 Jul (RJD, MLO, ADT, DWal, KJW); Old Winchester Hill, one, 11 Jun (RJD, MLO, DWal, KJW);

VC12: Crawley, one, 14 Jun (GCE); Basingstoke, one, 28 Jun (GAH)

73.353 [B&F: 2130] Dotted Clay Xestia baja ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common

Common in woodland, heathland, scrubby grassland and marshes throughout the British Isles. In Hampshire widely distributed, but not particularly common and generally absent from the chalk. Not recorded from the Isle of Wight since 1982. Wingspan 38-44 mm. Combination of general appearance and two black dots close to apex of forewing is distinctive. Larva feeds on herbaceous plants such as Primrose, Stinging Nettle and Dock in autumn, and woody plants such as Blackthorn, Bog-myrtle and Willow in spring.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
108118561982
1147252419512020
1216123519512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11211

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC11: Woodlands, NF, present, 02 Aug (RBW); #N/A

73.355 [B&F: 2132] Neglected Rustic Xestia castanea (Esper, 1798) - Local

Local on heathland and moorland, and in bogs throughout the British Isles, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In Hampshire common on heathland in the New Forest and in the north-east, but uncommon elsewhere and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 36-42 mm. Variable, with the grey form neglecta more common in the south of Britain, and red forms in the north of Britain; in north-east Hampshire both grey and red forms occur. The grey form may be confused with Square-spot Rustic X. xanthographa, but X. castanea always characterised by reniform and orbicular stigmata inconspicuous, concolorous with ground colour, outlined ochreous, and reniform stigma with dark dot in dorsal half (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on Heather, Bell Heather and Cross-leaved Heath.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
107118562019
1140549219492020
12789319512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11772
12441

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC11: Ashley Heath, one, 03 Sep (SDut); Dibden Purlieu, one, 08 Sep (RAC); Sway, present, 05 Sep (DMui); Milford on Sea, one, 11 Sep (MMcM); Pennington, two, 23 Sep; two, 24 Sep (RFC); Needs Ore NNR, present, 09 Sep (CBut, SCol);

VC12: Pamber Forest, one, 04 Sep; one, 08 Sep (GJD); Hammer Vale, one, 12 Aug; one, 06 Sep (ASwa det. MJW)

73.356 [B&F: 2135] Heath Rustic Xestia agathina (Duponchel, 1827) - Local

Local on acid heathland and moorland 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 locally common on heaths, especially the New Forest, although has suffered from habitat destruction in a number of former haunts, especially in the north-east. It is an occasional wanderer elsewhere. Wingspan 28-36 mm. A constant feature is the small, pale, very oblique orbicular stigmata. Larva feeds on Heather.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10252819582020
1142952419512020
12323819512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1124336
12595

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC11: Furzehill, NF, two, 08 Sep; one, 19 Sep (SLoa); Woodlands, NF, present, 09 Sep (RBW); Ashley, one, 04 Sep (GCE); #N/ADibden Purlieu, one, 03 Sep; one, 04 Sep; one, 05 Sep; one, 11 Aug; one, 12 Aug; one, 14 Aug; one, 17 Aug; one, 03 Sep; one, 04 Sep; two, 05 Sep; one, 08 Sep (RAC); Fareham, one, 09 Sep (MLO); Hurn, one, 06 Sep; one, 19 Sep (MJef); Thorney Hill, Bransgore, one, 08 Sep; six, 11 Sep; five, 12 Sep (JFen); Sway, present, 12 Sep (DMui); Needs Ore NNR, one, 09 Sep (CBut, SCol);

VC12: Crawley, one, 14 Sep (GCE); Basingstoke, one, 06 Sep (MJW); Alton, one, 08 Sep (EFig); Bordon, five, 03 Sep (AAll, RKin); Hammer Vale, one, 08 Sep (ASwa)

73.357 [B&F: 2134] Square-spot Rustic Xestia xanthographa ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common

Common in grassland, gardens and woodland rides throughout the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight abundant in areas of grassland and open woodland, and amongst the rank grasses of the chalk downs. Wingspan 32-40 mm. The pale reniform stigma of Square-spot Rustic should preclude confusion with any other species; the much less common Garden Dart Euxoa nigricans has the forewing narrower and a conspicuous claviform stigma (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on various grasses.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101266894219512020
1116209822132002020
1239132884919512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1010237122
11671297170
12315158065

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 22 Jul, 1 (RTer) Latest: Seaview, 29 Sep, 1 (J&SMas) Max count: Wydcombe, 06 Sep, 22 (IOut)

VC11: Earliest: Avon Heath Country Park, 03 Aug, 1 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 28 Sep, 1 (JRL) Max count: West Meon, 03 Sep, 70 (RJD, MLO, DWal, KJW)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 23 Aug, 2 (CMap) Latest: Farnborough, 18 Sep, 6 (KBW) Max count: Blackwater, 08 Mar, 65 (BDal)

73.358 [B&F: 2133] Six-striped Rustic Xestia sexstrigata (Haworth, 1809) - Common

Common in water meadows, marshes, fens, damp woodland, hedgerows, gardens and downland throughout much of the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread and common. Wingspan 36-38 mm. Fairly unmistakable. Larva polyphagous on herbaceous plants such as Hedge Bedstraw, Ribwort Plantain, Bramble, Bluebell and Water Figwort.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1015929819032020
112474620919512020
12848250519512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10683
1157766
1223396

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC10: Totland, two, 27 Aug (RTer); Alverstone, one, 11 Aug; one, 14 Aug; one, 09 Sep (DFai); Osborne Valley Walk, three, 26 Aug (IOut); Bembridge Lagoons, present, field observation, 16 Aug (AEmm);

VC11: Ashley Heath, one, 03 Sep (SDut); Fordingbridge, one, 20 Aug (SCT); Furzehill, NF, three, 25 Aug; one, 14 Aug; two, 19 Aug; two, 04 Sep (SLoa); Marchwood, five, 13 Aug (TDCh); one, 23 Aug; one, 25 Aug; one, 27 Aug; one, 29 Aug; one, 02 Sep (CTha); Woodlands, NF, present, 01 Sep (RBW); Totton, one, 15 Sep (CNB); Lee, nr Nursling, six, 21 Aug; one, 03 Sep (CTha); Broughton, one, 15 Aug; one, 15 Aug; Stockbridge Down NT, one, 05 Sep (GCE); Stanbrige Earls, two, 26 Aug (JRM); Chandlers Ford, one, 13 Aug (AMur); Swaythling, Southampton, one, 16 Aug; one, 22 Aug; two, 29 Aug; one, 03 Sep; one, 10 Sep (MEdg); Allbrook, one, 25 Aug; one, 28 Aug (SIng); Fareham, one, to light, 01 Sep (KJW); Botley, one, 12 Aug; one, 15 Aug; one, 20 Aug; one, 27 Aug; one, 30 Aug; one, 03 Sep; one, 14 Aug; two, 17 Aug; one, 19 Aug; one, 21 Aug; one, 23 Aug; three, 24 Aug; one, 25 Aug; two, 27 Aug; two, 29 Aug; one, 02 Sep; one, 03 Sep; two, 04 Sep; one, 05 Sep; one, 09 Sep (SLB); Wickham, one, 30 Aug (JRDS); Hurn, one, 03 Jul; one, 16 Aug; one, 06 Sep (MJef); Burton, nr Christchurch, one, 31 Aug (JStw); Sway, present, 12 Sep (DMui); Needs Ore NNR, one, 18 Aug (CNB); one, 19 Aug (PCra);

VC12: Goodworth Clatford, one, 30 Aug (GCE); Chilbolton, one, 22 Aug (SLE); Goodworth Clatford, two, 09 Aug; two, 10 Aug; two, 11 Aug; two, 12 Aug (JMor); Tangley, one, 26 Aug (DLaw); Barton Stacey, two, 29 Aug; one, 24 Aug; Bullington, two, 24 Aug; one, 24 Aug (GCE); Ecchinswell, one, 14 Aug (MTay, CSul); Burghclere, three, 29 Aug; two, 14 Aug (PBlk); Ecchinswell, one, 23 Aug (MJN); Axmansford, two, 14 Aug; Great Haughurst Copse, Axmansford, two, 20 Aug (ACB); Pamber Forest, one, 04 Sep (GJD); Alton, one, 20 Aug (NDP); Empshott, one, 30 Aug (CJP); Whitehill, one, 24 Aug (ASto); Blackwater, one, 09 Sep; Hawley Meadows, six, at dusk, 22 Aug (BDal)

73.359 [B&F: 2126] Setaceous Hebrew Character Xestia c-nigrum (Linnaeus, 1758) - Common

Common often abundant, especially in autumn, in a wide variety of habitats, including gardens, woodland, heathland and marshes throughout the British Isles. Widespread and extremely common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 35-45 mm. One of the most frequent visitors to light traps in autumn and very easily recognised, the most likely confusion species is Double Square-spot X. triangulum. Larva feeds on a wide variety on herbaceous plants, including Stinging Nettle, White Dead-nettle, Great Willowherb, Rosebay Willowherb and Greater Burdock.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101677870519512020
1120358989982002020
1261485489519512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10174109879
11773348867
123472116165

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 28 May, 1 (RTer) Latest: Seaview, 15 Sep, 1 (J&SMas) Max count: Totland, 01 Sep, 79 (RTer)

VC11: Earliest: Avon Heath Country Park, 17 Aug, 2 (JFal) Latest: Portsmouth Natural History Musuem, 26 Aug, 0 (KAnd) Max count: Crawley, 14 Sep, 67 (GCE)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 16 Jul, 1 (CMap) Latest: Farnborough, 07 Oct, 1 (KBW) Max count: Cholderton, 10 Sep, 165 (TJN)

73.361 [B&F: 2128] Double Square-spot Xestia triangulum (Hufnagel, 1766) - Common

Common in deciduous woodland, hedgerows and gardens throughout the British Isles, where it is far more frequent than the superficially similar Triple-spotted Clay X. ditrapezium. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 36-46 mm. Larva feeds on Meadow Buttercup, Primrose, Cow Parsley and Wood Spurge.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1033268319512020
113976634819512020
122325611019482020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10326410
111311758
12741059

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 25 Jul, 1 (RTer) Latest: Briddlesford, 09 Jun, 2 (JRB) Max count: Shanklin, 20 Jul, 10 (IOut)

VC11: Earliest: Ashley Heath, 08 Jul, 1 (SDut) Latest: Pennington, 15 Jul, 1 (RFC) Max count: Furzehill, NF, 08 Jul, 8 (SLoa)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 16 Jul, 1 (CMap) Latest: Grayshott, 06 Jul, 1 (THard) Max count: Cholderton, 02 Jul, 9 (TJN, LFom, HEdm)

73.365 [B&F: 2117] Autumnal Rustic Eugnorisma glareosa (Esper, 1788) - Common

Common in heathland, moorland, rough grassland and downland throughout the British Isles, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Local in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight, with occasional wanderers turning up away from established localities. Wingspan 32-38 mm. Unlikely to be confused with any other British species, except on Shetland where Ingrailed Clay Diarsia mendica thulei resembles E. glareosa f. edda. Larva feeds on Heather, Bell Heather, Silver and Downy Birch, Bedstraw, Bluebell.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10829018562020
11712120919512020
1223440419512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10682
1132403
12198860

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC10: Totland, one, 23 Oct (RTer); Bonchurch, one, 14 Oct; one, 16 Oct (JHa); Ryde, two, 09 Oct; two, 10 Oct (IGam); Lake, one, 14 Oct (TSte);

VC11: Ashley Heath, two, 10 Sep (SDut); Furzehill, NF, one, 04 Sep; one, 06 Sep; two, 12 Sep; one, 19 Sep (SLoa); Marchwood, one, 10 Sep (CTha); Woodlands, NF, present, 01 Sep (RBW); Totton, one, 15 Sep (CNB); Woodley, one, 12 Sep (NBin); Broughton, two, 06 Sep; two, 06 Sep; one, 06 Sep; three, 06 Sep; two, 06 Sep; Stockbridge Down NT, one, 05 Sep; Ashley, one, 04 Sep; Crawley, one, 14 Sep (GCE); Stanbrige Earls, one, 06 Sep; one, 24 Sep (JRM); Dibden Purlieu, one, 04 Sep; one, 31 Aug (RAC); Blackfield, one, 30 Aug; one, 04 Sep; one, 11 Sep (SJJ); Hurn, one, 26 Sep (MJef); Burton, nr Christchurch, one, 01 Oct (JStw); Thorney Hill, Bransgore, one, 08 Sep; one, 11 Sep; one, 16 Sep; one, 25 Sep (JFen); Sway, one, 12 Sep (S&SLan); Browndown Coastal Ranges, three, 08 Oct (MLO, ADT, DWal, KJW);

VC12: Cholderton, 60, 10 Sep (TJN); Chilbolton, one, 09 Sep; Crawley, one, 14 Sep; one, 14 Sep (GCE); Anna Valley, Andover, one, 05 Sep; two, 17 Sep (TJN, LFom); Goodworth Clatford, two, 19 Sep; one, 18 Sep; Crawley, one, 14 Sep; Barton Stacey*, one, 24 Sep; one, 24 Sep; four, 24 Sep; six, 24 Sep; one, 24 Sep; one, 24 Sep (GCE); Ecchinswell, one, 06 Sep (MTay, CSul); Alton, one, 30 Sep (EFig); Hammer Vale, one, 11 Sep; one, 19 Sep (ASwa)

73.368 [B&F: 2136] Gothic Naenia typica (Linnaeus, 1758) - Local

Local in gardens, marshes, hedgerows and damp woodland throughout much of the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight an uncommon species, although it does not come readily to light and is probably under-recorded; most recent records have been of singletons at light or on flowers such as Buddleia. Wingspan 36-46 mm. Both Bordered Gothic Heliophobus reticulata and Feathered Gothic Tholera decimalis are similar, but they both have a series of wedge-shaped marks in the subterminal region. Larva feeds on various herbaceous and woody plants.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10232118562015
1131628119512020
1223824219512019

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
12122

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC12: Over Wallop, two, 07 Sep (CMap)