Hantsmoths

Common on chalk downland, unimproved limestone grassland, hedgerows and woodland edges throughout much of northern England and Scotland; much more local in southern England, mainly in the west. In Hampshire locally frequent on Martin Down, Porton Down, Cholderton and the Stockbridge/Farley Mount area, but has almost disappeared from the New Forest. Not recorded from the Isle of Wight since 1856. Wingspan 27-30 mm. An unmistakable, day-flying moth. Larva feeds on flowers and seeds of Pignut, over-wintering as an egg.