2020 Annual Report for: Geometridae / Sterrhinae

For species seen in 2020 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is taken from the main Hantsmoths website, and it is possible that some information on abundance and occurrence can get out of date, as it is impossible to keep up with all changes; however it should give a good introduction to each species.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 2020 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 2020, 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.

70.002 [B&F: 1698] Purple-bordered Gold Idaea muricata (Hufnagel, 1767) - Nationally Scarce

Nationally scarce (Nb) in damp heathland, mosses, bogs, fens and other damp areas in parts of England. In Hampshire fairly frequent in the New Forest, on boggy heathland; but no recent record from north-east Hampshire where, in 1957, it was reported as being fairly common in the Farnborough area. Not recorded from the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 18-20 mm. Small size and day-flying habits could result in confusion with pyralids such as Gold Triangle Hypsopygia costalis and Pyrausta sanguinalis. Larva feeds on Marsh Cinquefoil.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1120015618002019
122219002011

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11431

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC11: Pigbush, NF, one, field observation, 09 Jun (NRJ); Longdown Inclosure, NF, present, field observation, 06 Jul (RBW); Ashurst, NF, one, 04 Jul (SAB); Pennington, one, 16 Jul (RFC)

70.004 [B&F: 1699] Least Carpet Idaea rusticata ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Local

Local in gardens, roadside verges, hedgerows, scrub, downland and embankments throughout much of southern England. First recorded in 1831 in the London area, since when has slowly spread up the Thames Valley, and into Essex and Kent, thence along the south coast as far as Scilly and northwards to Cheshire. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight first recorded in 1977 at Ashurst, then Highcliffe and Hayling Island in 1984, all in vice-county 11. The first Isle of Wight record was in 1991. Since then, very small numbers have occurred in all three vice-counties: it is evidently spreading westwards from its headquarters in the Thames Estuary. Wingspan 19-21 mm. Fairly unmistakable. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Ivy and Traveller's-joy.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1012623319802019
1123622219762019
1232956319812019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1013236
1180864
1214429715

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Wheelers Bay, 23 Jul, 1 (ABu) Latest: Bembridge Fort, 06 Aug, 1 (IOu) Max count: Bonchurch, 25 Jun, 6 (JHa)

VC11: Earliest: Totton, 28 Jun, 1 (LH) Latest: Southsea, 20 Jul, 1 (JGe) Max count: Hilltop, The Hangers, 01 Aug, 4 (SI)

VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 17 Jul, 1 (TJN, HE) Latest: Yateley, 08 Aug, 5 (JHH) Max count: Farnborough, 23 Jul, 15 (KBW)

70.006 [B&F: 1705] Dwarf Cream Wave Idaea fuscovenosa (Goeze, 1781) - Local

Local in hedgerows, scrubby grassland, woodland edges and gardens throughout England. Widespread and fairly common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 19-22 mm. Fairly distinctive with narrow, dark costal streak. Larva feeds on herbaceous plants such as Dandelion and Knotgrass.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1030967719292019
113104475719512019
1274087619512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1034847
1131354511
121011515

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Cranmore, 07 Jul, 0 (CHic) Latest: Broadley Copse, 25 Jun, 1 (JBa) Max count: Bonchurch, 22 Jun, 7 (JHa)

VC11: Earliest: Shatterford, NF, 14 Jul, 1 (RBW, MWa) Latest: Southsea, 12 Jul, 1 (JGe) Max count: Totton, 24 Jun, 11 (LH)

VC12: Earliest: Anna Valley, Andover, 23 Jun, 2 (TJN) Latest: Yateley, 31 Jul, 1 (JHH) Max count: Harestock, 16 Jun, 5 (GRog)

70.008 [B&F: 1707] Small Dusty Wave Idaea seriata (Schrank, 1802) - Common

Common in gardens, hedgerows and rough ground, also occasionally indoors throughout Britain. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 19-21 mm. Rather pug-like in size and shape, but irrorate (dusty) appearance is unlike any pug. Larva feeds on withered leaves and plant detritus.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1043477719762019
115329779719492019
121216147919512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1031535
1135858314
1257765

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Totland, 20 Sep, 1 (RTe) Latest: Seaview, 18 Aug, 1 (JMas) Max count: Bonchurch, 24 Jun, 5 (JHa)

VC11: Earliest: Ringwood, 20 Jun, 0 (iNat) Latest: Southsea, 16 Aug, 1 (RGol) Max count: Totton, 15 Aug, 9 (LH)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 29 May, 1 (CM) Latest: Yateley, 09 Aug, 1 (GHa) Max count: Basingstoke, 26 Jun, 5 (JHu)

70.009 [B&F: 1709] Satin Wave Idaea subsericeata (Haworth, 1809) - Common

Common in woodland, scrub, hedgerows, rough grassland and gardens throughout much of southern England, less frequent in south-western and northern England. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight fairly common locally, on heaths and amongst tall grasses on downland. Wingspan 22-25 mm. The most likely confusion species are the very much less common Dotted Border Wave I. sylvestraria

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10825719602019
111553174419512019
1221220619512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
107158
11821034
1215205

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Freshwater, one, to actinic, 21 Sep (PBa); Kingston, one, 22 Jul; one, 01 Aug (ENes); Bonchurch, one, 11 Jun; two, 24 Jun; one, 12 Sep (JHa); Haseley Manor, eight, 11 Aug (IOu);

VC11: Marchwood, one, 26 May; one, 01 Jun (CTh); Woodlands, New Forest, present, 09 Aug (RBW); Ashurst, NF, one, 31 May; one, 08 Aug (SAB); Totton, one, 23 May; one, 24 May; three, 27 May; one, 29 May; one, 01 Jun; one, 09 Jun; one, 14 Jun; one, 16 Jun (LH); Dibden Purlieu, one, to actinic, 07 Aug; one, to actinic, 09 Aug; one, to actinic, 12 Aug; one, to actinic, 10 Aug (RAC); Southampton, one, 30 May; one, 07 Aug (MEdg); Locks Heath, one, 30 May; one, 19 Jun (PAS); Catisfield, one, 07 Aug; one, 10 Aug (ALR); Fareham, one, 07 Jun (KJW); Wickham Common, one, 12 Aug (KC); Wickham, one, 08 Jun; one, 28 Jun; one, 18 Jul; one, 23 Jul; one, 27 Jul; one, 30 Jul; two, 05 Aug; one, 06 Aug; one, 09 Aug; one, 10 Aug; two, 11 Aug; two, 14 Aug; two, 15 Aug; one, 16 Aug; one, 17 Aug; one, 23 Aug; one, 03 Sep (JRDS); Portsmouth, two, 25 May; two, 26 May; two, 02 Jun; one, 07 Jun; one, 12 Jun; one, 15 Jun; one, 17 Jun; one, 18 Jun; two, 22 Jul; three, 23 Jul; one, 29 Jul; one, 31 Jul; one, 01 Aug; four, 02 Aug; one, 03 Aug; three, 04 Aug; one, 05 Aug; one, 06 Aug; four, 07 Aug; one, 08 Aug; two, 09 Aug; two, 10 Aug; one, 12 Aug; one, 16 Aug; one, 23 Aug; one, 24 Aug; one, 15 Sep (IRT); Sway, one, 23 May; one, 26 May (SKe);

VC12: Crawley, one, 21 May (TNo); one, to actinic, 30 Jun; Barton Stacey, one, to actinic, 14 Aug; one, to actinic, 27 May; one, to actinic, 27 May; one, to actinic, photograph taken., 11 Aug; one, to actinic, 27 May; one, to actinic, 27 May; five, to actinic, 27 May (GCE); Pamber Forest, two, 30 May; one, 14 Jun; one, 15 Jun (GJD); Liss Forest*, one, 25 May; Warren Hill, Liss Forest*, one, 04 Jul (RJM); Whitehill, one, to actinic, 25 Jun (ASto)

70.010 [B&F: 1701] Dotted Border Wave Idaea sylvestraria (Hübner, [1799]) - Nationally Scarce

Nationally scarce (Nb) in scrubby heathland, mostly in south-eastern England, with scattered colonies from Sussex to Yorkshire and Lancashire. In our area, scarce but most frequent in the New Forest, with occasional reports from the north-east of Hampshire, with scattered records from elsewhere: all records away from the core areas will require photographic evidence at least to confirm records. Wingspan 20-23 mm. Apart from the very local Silky Wave I. dilutaria, which may also have small terminal dots on both wings, the main confusion species is Satin Wave I. subsericeata, which usually lacks terminal dots; Dwarf Cream Wave I. fuscovenosa has terminal dashes instead of dots. Larva feeds on Wild Thyme, Dyer's Greenweed and Petty Whin.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1013419622016
1114513118002019
12252319562019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11211
12211

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC11: Shatterford, NF, one, 14 Jul; present, 14 Jul (RBW, MWa);

VC12: Castle Bottom NNR, present, 25 Jun (JHH, AMD)

70.011 [B&F: 1708] Single-dotted Wave Idaea dimidiata (Hufnagel, 1767) - Common

Common in woodland, hedgerows, gardens, fens, marshes and river-banks throughout the British Isles, but absent from the north of Scotland. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 17-22 mm. Confusion species include Treble Brown Spot I. trigeminata. Larva feeds on Cow Parsley, Burnet-saxifrage and Hedge Bedstraw.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10722125219512019
116334896419512019
122020297019512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1036564
112563217
121001295

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Afton Marsh, 28 Sep, 1 (IOu) Latest: East Cowes, 26 Jul, 1 (KWes) Max count: Kingston, 01 Jul, 4 (ENes)

VC11: Earliest: Pig Bush, NF, 17 Jul, 2 (CL) Latest: Southsea, 29 Jul, 1 (JGe) Max count: Portsmouth, 18 Jul, 7 (IRT)

VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 10 Jul, 1 (TJN, HE) Latest: Yateley, 08 Aug, 1 (JHH) Max count: Crawley, 21 Jul, 5 (GCE)

70.012 [B&F: 1711] Treble Brown Spot Idaea trigeminata (Haworth, 1809) - Local

Local in woodland rides, gardens and hedgerows, and on chalk downland throughout southern England. Widespread and fairly common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 23-25 mm. Possible confusion species include f. fimbriolata of Small Fan-footed Wave I. biselata, and Single-dotted Wave I. dimidiata, which see. Larva feeds on withered leaves of Ivy.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10523172619002019
114200599819512019
121249205219512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
105021515
1126939410
129518818

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Freshwater, 15 Jun, 2 (ERic) Latest: Broadley Copse, 25 Jun, 1 (JBa) Max count: Bonchurch, 25 Jun, 15 (JHa)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 13 Jun, 1 (SDut) Latest: Pennington, 01 Jul, 1 (RFC) Max count: Fareham, 24 Jun, 10 (MLO)

VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 17 Jul, 1 (TJN, HE) Latest: Yateley, 23 Jun, 9 (JHH) Max count: Farnborough, 19 Jun, 18 (KBW)

70.013 [B&F: 1702] Small Fan-footed Wave Idaea biselata (Hufnagel, 1767) - Common

Common in broad-leaved woodland, plantations, heaths and gardens throughout the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread and common. Wingspan 22-25 mm. The main confusion species is Dwarf Cream Wave I. fuscovenosa, which has dashes, not dots, along termen, and dark streak on basal third of costa. Larva thought to feed on the withered leaves of plants such as Dandelion.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10817264419722019
114644776719512019
121931437519512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
104926537
111372299
128015310

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: West High Down Quarry, 07 Aug, 6 (IOu) Latest: Firestone Copse, 21 Jul, 9 (IOu) Max count: Parkhurst Forest, 29 Jun, 37 (IOu)

VC11: Earliest: Furze Hill, NF, 19 Jul, 0 (RBW, MWa) Latest: Norleywood, NF, 09 Aug, 0 (RBW, MWa) Max count: West Meon, 31 Jul, 9 (F.M.G.)

VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 10 Jul, 1 (TJN, HE) Latest: Yateley, 12 Aug, 1 (JHH) Max count: Preston Candover, 12 Jul, 10 (MJW)

70.015 [B&F: 1712] Small Scallop Idaea emarginata (Linnaeus, 1758) - Local

Local and declining, in damp woodland, rough grassland, rural gardens, river-banks and other damp areas throughout England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widely distributed, but not particularly common. Wingspan 24-27 mm. The combination of scalloped outer wing-edges and delicate curved cross-lines are quite distinctive. Larva feeds on various species of Bedstraw.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10311818562019
1136429618742019
1212411619512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11431
12211

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC11: Woodlands, New Forest, present, 11 Jul (RBW); Wickham Common, one, 11 Jul (KC);

VC12: Monk Sherborne, present, 23 Jul (iNat); Pamber Forest, one, 03 Jul (GJD)

70.016 [B&F: 1713] Riband Wave Idaea aversata (Linnaeus, 1758) - Common

Extremely common in a wide range of habitats, including gardens, hedgerows, woodland, heathland, calcareous grassland and fens throughout the British Isles, more numerous in the south. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 30-35 mm. Occurs in two distinct forms, the plain form remutata often outnumbering the typical banded form. The main confusion species are the very much more uncommon Plain Wave I. straminata and Portland Ribbon Wave I. degeneraria, which see. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101436734519512019
1119602752162002019
1256622306119512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1010742028
11965302238
12404136829

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: West High Down Quarry, 07 Aug, 6 (IOu) Latest: Seaview, 18 Aug, 2 (JMas) Max count: Parkhurst Forest, 29 Jun, 28 (IOu)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 19 Jun, 3 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 02 Jun, 0 (JRL) Max count: Sway, 25 Jun, 38 (SKe)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 12 Jun, 1 (CM) Latest: Yateley, 08 Aug, 13 (JHH) Max count: Basingstoke, 24 Jun, 29 (MJW)

70.017 [B&F: 1714] Portland Ribbon Wave Idaea degeneraria (Hübner, [1799]) - Nationally Rare

A rare Red Data Book species, breeding in grassland and scrub on coastal limestone in Portland, Dorset. Also a rare immigrant from mainland Europe, appearing as a migrant on the southern coast of England, where it has become very much more common since the start of the 21st Century. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight first recorded from Freshwater on the Island in September 1902, thereafter at Brockenhurst in October 1962, Totton in August 1990 and Freshwater in August 1997, becoming very much more common from 2006 onwards, since when up to five have been recorded in most years. Wingspan 26-31 mm. Fairly unmistakable. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1011421719022019
11323319622019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10225122
11452

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Totland, one, 19 Sep (RTe); Freshwater Cliffs, one, 30 Aug; Freshwater Bay, one, 20 Sep (SDa); Freshwater, one, to actinic, 20 Sep; one, to actinic, 20 Sep (PBa); Cranmore, present, to actinic, 19 Aug (CHic); Bonchurch, one, 09 May; one, 18 May; three, 21 May; one, 25 May; two, 26 May; two, 27 May; one, 29 May; one, 02 Jun; one, 07 Jun; one, 11 Jun; two, 20 Jun; one, 03 Aug; 22, 13 Aug; four, 27 Aug; two, 28 Aug (JHa); Shanklin, one, 14 Aug (IOu);

VC11: Milford on Sea, one, 10 Aug (MMcM); Pennington, one, 08 Sep; one, 11 Sep; two, 14 Sep (RFC)

70.018 [B&F: 1715] Plain Wave Idaea straminata (Borkhausen, 1794) - Local

Local in open woodland, scrubby heathland, hedgerows, rough grassland and gardens throughout much of the British Isles. In Hampshire local and uncommon but probably overlooked, and some of the sight records that have been submitted may have been unwarrantedly rejected; most records are from the New Forest and from Pamber Forest and Silchester. Very scarce on the Isle of Wight, with just three records so far this century. Wingspan 28-33 mm. Most likely to be confused with f. remutata of Riband Wave I. aversata, but in the latter species the postmedian fascia is kinked where it meets the costa, and the fascia are generally darker. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1013518562015
1151147718812019
1211310419002019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1128281
12194510

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC11: Brockwood, one, 13 Jun (SDut); Godshill, NF, one, to actinic, 14 Aug; Hale Purlieu, one, to actinic, 13 Aug (MCu); Dibden Purlieu, one, to actinic, 14 Aug; one, to actinic, 15 Aug; one, to actinic, 27 Jun; one, to actinic, 02 Jul; one, to actinic, 20 Jul; one, to actinic, 24 Jul; one, to actinic, 25 Jul; one, to actinic, 07 Aug; one, to actinic, 08 Aug; one, to actinic, 09 Aug; one, to actinic, 10 Aug (RAC); Pennington, one, 05 Aug; one, 13 Aug; one, 14 Aug (RFC);

VC12: Liss*, one, 25 Jun; one, 17 Jul; two, 31 Jul; one, 07 Aug; one, 14 Aug (LBe); Liss Forest*, one, 18 Jul; two, 25 Jul; two, 01 Aug (RJM); Alton, nine, 31 Jul; one, 10 Aug; 10, 24 Jun; one, 28 Jul; one, 29 Jul; four, 07 Aug; Lower Froyle, three, 30 Jul; four, 11 Aug (EFig); Castle Bottom NNR, present, 25 Jun (JHH, AMD); Hammer Vale, Woolmer, one, 10 Jul (ASw)

70.023 [B&F: 1689] Mullein Wave Scopula marginepunctata (Goeze, 1781) - Local

Local in grassland and saltmarshes along most of the Welsh and English coastline, but distinctly uncommon inland, except in the London area where it is locally abundant, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight fairly frequent along the coast, although rare inland, where mainly confined to the chalk. Wingspan 25-28 mm. Similar in appearance to Weaver's Wave Idaea contiguaria, but significantly larger, with no overlap in wingspan. Larva feeds on Wild Marjoram, Wood Sage, Horseshoe Vetch, Yarrow and Mugwort.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1040670818562019
111532180219262019
1214719512018

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1046936
1113131
12111

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC10: West High Down Quarry, six, 07 Aug; one, 20 Aug (IOu); Totland, one, 18 Sep (RTe); Freshwater Cliffs, two, 20 May; four, 09 Aug; one, 30 Aug (SDa); Freshwater Bay, four, to actinic, 15 Sep; Freshwater, one, to actinic, 20 Sep; Compton Down, four, to actinic, 13 Sep; two, to actinic, 20 Sep (PBa); Cranmore, present, to actinic, 11 Sep (CHic); Brighstone, two, to actinic, 07 Aug (TDov); St Lawrence: Salem Close, one, to actinic, 27 Sep; two, to actinic, 28 Sep; Ventnor Botanic Garden, one, to actinic, 29 Sep (PBa); Wheelers Bay, one, 23 Jul (ABu); Bonchurch, one, 27 Apr; one, 08 May; one, 09 May; one, 12 May; one, 15 May; one, 16 May; two, 18 May; three, 21 May; two, 25 May; four, 26 May; two, 27 May; three, 29 May; one, 30 May; four, 02 Jun; three, 07 Jun; four, 08 Jun; two, 11 Jun; two, 15 Jun; four, 17 Jun; two, 19 Jun; one, 20 Jun; two, 22 Jun; three, 24 Jun; two, 25 Jun (JHa); Rookley, one, to actinic, 01 Jul (JBa); Haseley Manor, two, 11 Aug; two, 21 Sep; Shanklin, one, 16 Sep; one, to lighted window, 17 Sep; Shanklin Upper Chine, one, 02 Jun (IOu);

VC11: Dibden Purlieu, one, to actinic, 17 Aug; one, 03 Sep (RAC); Catisfield, one, 10 Aug (ALR); Portsmouth, one, 06 Aug (IRT); Moordown, Bournemouth, one, 29 Aug (MKDev); Tuckton, Bournemouth, one, 28 Jul (APar); Milford on Sea, one, 09 Sep (MMcM); Pennington, one, 10 Aug; one, 11 Sep (RFC);

VC12: South Warnborough*, one, 22 Jul (DLee)

70.024 [B&F: 1690] Small Blood-vein Scopula imitaria (Hübner, [1799]) - Common

Common in a wide range of habitats including gardens, hedgerows and broad-leaved woodland throughout England. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 26-29 mm. Larva assumed to feed on woody plants such as Privet and Honeysuckle.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1026029519512019
113738416819512019
1280791619402019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1019233
111131193
1238403

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: West High Down Quarry, 07 Aug, 1 (IOu) Latest: Bembridge, 24 Jul, 1 (JCro) Max count: Bonchurch, 12 Jul, 3 (JHa)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 13 Jun, 1 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 27 Jun, 2 (JGe) Max count: Pennington, 24 Jun, 3 (RFC)

VC12: Earliest: Teg Down, Winchester, 14 Jun, 1 (CKn) Latest: Farnborough, 24 Jun, 1 (SBai) Max count: Basingstoke, 24 Jun, 3 (RHil)

70.025 [B&F: 1692] Lesser Cream Wave Scopula immutata (Linnaeus, 1758) - Local

Local in damp grassland, marshes and other damp areas throughout much of England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight the species has declined and is now found only in scattered colonies. Wingspan 24-27 mm. Similar to Cream Wave S. floslactata, but smaller. Larva feeds on Meadowsweet and Common Valerian.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10191218562011
1119417918742019
1213624319402018

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11992
12331

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC11: Godshill, NF, present, 12 Jul (RBW, MWa); Hale Purlieu, two, to actinic, 13 Aug (MCu); Woodlands, New Forest, present, 30 Jun (RBW); Stockbridge Down NT, one, to actinic, 24 Jul; two, to actinic, 24 Jul; Kings Somborne, one, to actinic, 15 Jul (GCE); Twyford, one, field observation, 13 Jul (RJD det. KJW); Wickham Common, one, 08 Jul; one, 13 Jul (KC);

VC12: Anna Valley, Andover, one, 25 Jun (TJN); Ecchinswell, one, to actinic, 02 Jul (MTa, CSu); Fleet Pond, one, 12 Jul (MHals)

70.027 [B&F: 1693] Cream Wave Scopula floslactata (Haworth, 1809) - Local

Local in broad-leaved woodland, hedgerows, damp grassland and gardens throughout much of England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight fairly common, though less so than in former times, in all three vice-counties. Wingspan 29-33 mm. Similar to Lesser Cream Wave S. immutata, but larger. Larva feeds on Bedstraw, Woodruff and Bush Vetch.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1013114319732019
1164762119512019
1225731919512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
108113
119102
1211133

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Brighstone, one, to actinic, 07 Aug (TDov); Walter's Copse, one, 17 May (IOu); Rookley, one, to actinic, 19 May; one, to actinic, 30 May; one, to actinic, 02 Jun (JBa); Shanklin, one, 08 Jun; Briddlesford Big Wood, Wootton Bridge, two, 20 May; Sandpit Copse, three, 20 May (IOu);

VC11: Kings Somborne, one, to actinic, 11 Jun; one, to actinic, 21 May (GCE); Southampton, one, 07 Jun (MEdg); Ashley, two, to actinic, 26 May (GCE); Teg Down, one, to actinic, 09 Jun (EmPe); Fareham, one, 09 Jun (IMcP); Pennington, one, 05 Aug; one, 07 Aug (RFC);

VC12: Crawley, one, to actinic, 17 May (GCE); Harestock, one, 11 Jun (GRog); Pamber Forest, one, 18 May; one, 20 May (GJD); Liss Forest, one, 21 May; one, 14 Jun (RJM); Hammer Vale, Woolmer, one, 19 May (ASw); Farnborough, one, 21 May (KBW); Yateley*, one, 21 May; three, 26 May; one, 09 Jun (JHH)

70.028 [B&F: 1691] Rosy Wave Scopula emutaria (Hübner, [1809]) - Nationally Scarce

Nationally scarce (Nb) on heathland, bogs and saltmarshes in parts of southern England, eastern England and southern Wales, predominantly coastal. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight found in two distinct habitats, in the coastal salterns and in boggy areas of the New Forest, where it is rather uncommon. Wingspan 23-26 mm. Similar to Sub-angled Wave S. nigropunctata, but much smaller. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10342018002019
1133825218002019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10111
11971

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Bonchurch*, one, 14 Aug (JHa);

VC11: Shatterford, NF, one, 14 Jul; present, 14 Jul (RBW, MWa); Marchwood, one, 24 Jun (CTh); Dibden Purlieu, one, to actinic, 14 Aug; one, to actinic, 15 Aug (RAC); Norleywood, NF, present, 09 Aug (RBW, MWa)

70.029 [B&F: 1682] Blood-Vein Timandra comae Schmidt, 1931 - Common

Common in marshes, river-banks, water meadows and gardens throughout England and Wales, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 30-34 mm. Larva feeds on Orache, Common Sorrel, Sheep's Sorrel, Knotgrass and Dock.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1049359519512019
114988616119512019
121573203019512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1027416
111161103
1260693

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Freshwater Cliffs, 11 May, 1 (SDa) Latest: Bembridge Marsh, 31 May, 1 (IOu) Max count: Haseley Manor, 28 May, 6 (IOu)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 29 Aug, 1 (SDut) Latest: Norleywood, NF, 09 Aug, 0 (RBW, MWa) Max count: Totton, 10 Aug, 3 (LH)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 15 Sep, 1 (CM) Latest: Yateley, 08 Sep, 1 (JHH) Max count: Anna Valley, Andover, 11 Aug, 3 (TJN)

70.030 [B&F: 1675] Dingy Mocha Cyclophora pendularia (Clerck, 1759) - Nationally Rare

A rare Red Data Book species, in scrubby heathland and damp grassland in parts of Dorset and Hampshire, a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In Hampshire persists at very low density, amongst small bushes of sallow in boggy areas in the New Forest, with occasional stray individuals also reported in the extreme north-west of the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 26-29 mm. Only likely to be confused with dark forms of Birch Mocha C. albipunctata, but more heavily speckled, with falcate tip to forewing, and pointed projection on hindwing. Larva feeds on Eared Willow and Grey Willow, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
103119501992
111029818002019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11321

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC11: Woodlands, New Forest, present, 27 May; one, 04 Aug (RBW)

70.031 [B&F: 1676] Mocha Cyclophora annularia (Fabricius, 1775) - Nb

Nationally scarce (Nb) in scrubland, woodland and mature hedgerows in parts of southern England. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread in vice-county 11, the southern half of vice-county 12 and in the north of the Island, but generally local and uncommon. Wingspan 22-26 mm. Unmistakable, although poorly marked specimens could be overlooked as Maiden's Blush C. punctaria. Larva feeds on Field Maple, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1031556818002019
11965120618002019
1222126919002019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1015141
1159684
1217182

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC10: Cranmore, present, to actinic, 19 Aug (CHic); Cowes, one, to actinic, 09 May (DNor); Bonchurch, one, 30 May; one, 09 Aug (JHa); Shanklin, one, 21 May; one, 02 Jun; one, 16 Jun; one, 21 Jun; one, 01 Aug; one, 06 Aug; one, 23 Aug; one, 14 Sep; Briddlesford Big Wood, Wootton Bridge, one, 20 May; Sandpit Copse, one, 20 May; Firestone Copse, one, 21 Jul (IOu);

VC11: Godshill, NF, one, to actinic, 14 Aug (MCu); Marchwood, one, 22 Apr (CTh); Woodlands, New Forest, present, 12 Aug (RBW); Ashurst, NF, one, 03 May (SAB); Totton, one, 30 Jul; one, 31 Jul; one, 09 Aug (LH); East Tytherley, one, to actinic, 10 Aug; one, to actinic, 10 Aug; one, to actinic, 10 Aug; one, to actinic, 10 Aug; Ashley, one, to actinic, 23 Jun; one, to actinic, 22 Jul (GCE); Romsey, one, 02 Jun (NRJ); Kings Somborne, one, to actinic, 31 Jul; one, to actinic, 09 Jul; one, to actinic, 21 May; one, to actinic, 07 Aug; two, to actinic, 07 Aug; one, to actinic, 26 May; three, to actinic, 07 Aug (GCE); Southampton, one, 09 Aug (MEdg); Eastleigh, one, to actinic, 18 Apr (KArb); Allbrook, one, 02 Jun; one, to actinic, 25 Jun; one, 30 Jul; one, 06 Aug; one, 08 Aug; one, 26 Aug (SI); Fareham, one, 09 May; one, 16 May (ADT); one, to actinic, 11 Jul; one, to actinic, 20 Jul; one, to actinic, 21 Jul; one, to actinic, 06 Aug (MLO); one, 07 Aug (KJW); Wickham, four, 07 Aug (F.M.G.); Botley, one, to actinic, 30 Jul; one, to actinic, 16 Aug (SLB); Hilltop, The Hangers, two, 01 Aug (SI); Wickham Common, one, 30 Jul (KC); Wickham, two, 30 Jul; one, 08 Aug; two, 09 Aug; one, 11 Aug; one, 17 Aug (JRDS); Hambledon, one, field observation, 08 Aug (PWhi); Lovedean, one, 10 Aug (ARJ); West Meon, one, 31 Jul (F.M.G.); Petersfield, one, to actinic, 19 Jul (RAll);

VC12: Over Wallop, one, 07 May (CM); Cholderton, present, 31 Jul; two, 08 Aug (TJN, HE); one, field observation, 11 Aug (TJN, LF); Crawley, one, 03 May (TNo); one, to actinic, 12 Aug; one, to actinic, 12 Aug; two, to actinic, 26 Aug; Barton Stacey, one, to actinic, 14 Aug; one, to actinic, 27 May; one, to actinic, 12 Jul (GCE); Cheriton, one, to actinic, 07 Aug; one, to actinic, 10 Aug (DAS); Pamber Forest, one, 13 Aug (GJD); Alton, one, to actinic, 13 Aug (BCA); one, to actinic, 19 May (NDP)

70.032 [B&F: 1677] Birch Mocha Cyclophora albipunctata (Hufnagel, 1767) - Local

Local in woodland and on heathland throughout much of the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight fairly frequent amongst birch, especially on boggy heathland, but less common than formerly, occurring mainly in the south-west and north-east of the county. Wingspan 25-29 mm. Dark forms could be confused with Dingy Mocha C. pendularia, which differs in more hooked apex of forewing and more pointed hindwing. Larva feeds on Downy and Silver Birch, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10261319562019
111013102319512019
1230843419512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1127312
1222273

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC11: Denny Lodge, NF, present, 08 Sep (iNat); East Tytherley, one, to actinic, 10 Aug (GCE); Romsey, one, 20 May (SLay); Dibden Purlieu, one, to actinic, 14 Aug; one, to actinic, 15 Aug (RAC); Eastleigh, one, to actinic, 29 May (KArb); Botley Wood, one, 18 Sep; one, 18 Sep (F.M.G.); Catisfield, one, 07 Aug (ALR); Wickham Common, one, 11 Sep (F.M.G.); one, 20 Aug (KC); Wickham, two, 09 May; one, 01 Jun; one, 16 Jul; one, 30 Jul; one, 05 Aug; two, 08 Aug; one, 09 Aug; two, 10 Aug; one, 14 Aug; one, 15 Aug; two, 23 Aug; one, 14 Sep; two, 15 Sep (JRDS);

VC12: Pamber Forest, one, 28 May; one, 06 Aug; one, 31 Jul; one, 15 Aug; one, 07 Sep (GJD); Liss, one, 14 Aug (LBe); Liss Forest, one, 02 May; one, 04 May; one, 06 Jun; two, 25 Jul (RJM); Whitehill, one, to actinic, 26 Apr; one, to actinic, 03 May; one, to actinic, 16 Jul; two, to actinic, 31 Jul; one, 12 Sep (ASto); Castle Bottom NNR, present, netted, 18 May; three, 16 Aug (JHH); Hammer Vale, Woolmer, one, 04 May (ASw); Fleet, one, 12 Jun (MHals); Church Crookham, one, to actinic, 09 May (DDim); Yateley, two, 12 Aug; two, 08 Aug (JHH)

70.033 [B&F: 1678] Blair's Mocha Cyclophora puppillaria (Hübner, [1799]) - Recent colonist

An increasingly common immigrant from mainland Europe, appearing in southern England. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight there has been a marked increase in records, with between ten and twenty annually from 2006 to 2012, compared with less than 30 in total between 1948 and 2005, and upwards of 200 per annum in 2018. It has now established as a localised breeding species in places, particularly along the southern coast of the Isle of Wight, and is becoming increasingly frequently encountered inland. Wingspan 28-36 mm. Most likely to be confused with second-generation Clay Triple-lines C. linearia, but antemedian fascia usually more continuous and media fascia thicker and bolder in that species. Larva feeds on Holm Oak, but it may be using other Quercus species in the UK.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10553110219462019
1130832819512019
12131319592019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
109221410
111091145

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: West High Down Quarry, 07 Aug, 2 (IOu) Latest: East Cowes, 30 May, 1 (TWhi) Max count: Shanklin, 16 Oct, 10 (IOu)

VC11: Earliest: Marchwood, 09 Nov, 1 (CTh) Latest: Southsea, 23 Oct, 1 (JGe) Max count: Pennington, 13 Aug, 5 (RFC)

70.034 [B&F: 1678a] Jersey Mocha Cyclophora ruficiliaria (Herrich-Schäffer, 1855) - Recent colonist

Local in woodland on Jersey, where present since at least 1917, but not recorded on the British mainland until 19 July 2003, when a female was trapped at Portland, Dorset. Now known to be resident here and in Cornwall. On the Isle of Wight, recorded for the first time at Bonchurch in August 2008, with further records at the same site in 2010 and 2011. Now probably resident at low levels on the south of the island. Hampshire's first record was in 2013, and sporadic records and future breeding may be expected.

Wingspan 28-32 mm. Similar to Blair's Mocha C. puppillaria. Larva feeds on Pedunculate Oak and Turkey Oak, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10485320082019
114420132018

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
106127

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Bonchurch, one, 28 Apr; one, 03 May; one, 02 Aug; one, 09 Aug; seven, 13 Aug (JHa); Shanklin, one, 09 Aug (IOu)

70.036 [B&F: 1680] Maiden's Blush Cyclophora punctaria (Linnaeus, 1758) - Local

Local in oak woodland throughout much of England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight still widespread and locally common, but less numerous on the chalk. Wingspan 25-32 mm. Fairly unmistakable, but worn, faded specimens could be confused with second generation Clay Triple-lines C. linearia, which see. Larva feeds on Pedunculate and Sessile Oak, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1043477519812019
11653293162002019
121298261519512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10511059
113695569
121191545

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: West High Down Quarry, 07 Aug, 3 (IOu) Latest: Bembridge Fort, 06 Aug, 1 (IOu) Max count: Shanklin, 14 Aug, 9 (IOu)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 07 Aug, 2 (SDut) Latest: Norleywood, NF, 09 Aug, 0 (RBW, MWa) Max count: Kings Somborne, 07 Aug, 9 (GCE)

VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 24 Jul, 1 (TJN, HE) Latest: Yateley, 17 Aug, 2 (JHH) Max count: Liss Forest, 15 Aug, 5 (RJM)

70.037 [B&F: 1681] Clay Triple-lines Cyclophora linearia (Hübner, [1799]) - Local

Local in beech woodland, hedgerows, parks and gardens throughout England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight fairly frequent in most beech woods, with a significant concentration of records in the New Forest, but perhaps declining elsewhere. Wingspan 26-33 mm. A pitfall for the unwary, with two distinct forms; first brood most closely resembles Maiden's Blush C. punctaria, in which antemedian and postmedian lines usually reduced to a row of spots, wings irrorate, and forewing variably flushed red; second brood most closely resembles Blair's Mocha C. puppillaria, but lighter, with wing tip less distinctly hooked. Larva feeds on Beech, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1018654118562019
111188154119402019
1229141619512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1014214
118923824
1235392

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Ningwood Common, 03 Jun, 2 (JMar) Latest: Firestone Copse, 21 Jul, 2 (IOu) Max count: Bonchurch, 25 Jun, 4 (JHa)

VC11: Earliest: Godshill, NF, 14 Aug, 7 (MCu) Latest: Norleywood, NF, 09 Aug, 0 (RBW, MWa) Max count: Kings Somborne, 31 Jul, 24 (GCE)

VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 24 Jul, 1 (TJN, HE) Latest: Church Crookham, 21 Sep, 1 (DDim) Max count: Cholderton, 31 Jul, 2 (TJN, HE)

70.038 [B&F: 1716] Vestal Rhodometra sacraria (Linnaeus, 1767) - Migrant

Immigrant from southern Europe, appearing most frequently on the south coast, but north to northern Scotland, in some years arriving in sufficient numbers to breed. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight a common immigrant, which is widely distributed throughout in some years. Wingspan 22-28 mm. Home-bred individuals duller than immigrants, and it is these that most closely resemble Straw Belle Aspitates gilvaria, but Vestal is smaller and rests with tent-like resting posture, while Straw Belle is usually speckled. Larva feeds on Knotgrass, but unable to over-winter in significant numbers.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1022440219552019
11117715731312019
1223129219512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10892
1126181
12221

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Freshwater Bay, one, to actinic, 15 Sep; one, to actinic, 17 Sep (PBa); Kingston, one, 24 Jun (ENes); Bonchurch, one, 08 Aug; one, 12 Aug (JHa); Haseley Manor, one, 21 Sep; Shanklin, two, 15 Sep; Shanklin Upper Chine, one, 08 Aug (IOu);

VC11: Acres Down, one, 08 Aug (CWlk); Woodlands, New Forest, present, 11 Aug; present, 15 Sep; present, 28 Sep (RBW); Timsbury, one, 11 Aug (TRa); Romsey, one, 12 Aug (NRJ); Dibden Purlieu, one, 20 Sep (RAC); Blackfied, one, to lighted window, 09 Aug (PGS); Southampton, one, 20 Sep (MEdg); Winchester, one, 05 Oct (THW); Fareham, one, 22 Sep (IMcP); one, 15 Aug; one, 15 Sep (KJW); Botley, one, to actinic, 19 Aug; one, to actinic, 19 Oct (SLB); Wickham Common, one, 21 Aug (KC); Portsmouth, one, 15 Sep (IRT); Northney, Hayling Island, present, 09 Aug; present, 14 Sep; present, 14 Sep; present, 22 Sep (JWP); Burton, nr Christchurch, one, 11 Aug (JSw); Norleywood, NF, present, 09 Aug (RBW, MWa);

VC12: Preston Candover, one, 07 Aug (MJW); Bramley, one, 16 Aug (REA)