Hantsmoths

Common in broad-leaved woodland, plantations, parks, hedgerows and gardens throughout much of England. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread and common in all three vice-counties. Wingspan 36-44 mm. Poplar Lutestring T. or is of similar size and shape, however in that species the white 80 mark is less clearly defined, often obsolete, there are four parallel fasciae in the antemedian region of the forewing, and the antemedian and postmedian lines diverge as they approach the costa instead of being parallel (MBGBI Vol 7 part 2). Please take care when entering records of Figure of Eighty or Eight that the correct species is selected: the present species is on the wing from May into July. Larva feeds on Aspen and Poplar, over-wintering as a pupa.