2020 Annual Report for: Noctuidae / Noctuinae

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taken from the main Hantsmoths website, and it is possible that some information on abundance and occurrence can get out of date, as it is impossible to keep up with all changes; however it should give a good introduction to each species.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

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1021157119512019
111019123819492019
121019519512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10595
11991
12111

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Freshwater Bay, five, 07 Nov (SDa); Bonchurch, one, 13 Mar; one, 15 Mar (JHa);

VC11: Catisfield, one, 26 Apr (ALR); Fareham, one, to actinic, 08 Nov (MLO); Portsmouth, one, 10 Nov (IRT); Milford on Sea, one, 07 Nov; one, 17 Nov (MMcM); Southsea, one, 10 Nov (JRL);

VC12: Liss Forest, one, 15 Aug (RJM)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
107212119002017
111120062006

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
104156

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: West High Down Quarry, four, 20 Aug; four, to light, 08 Sep (IOu); Freshwater Bay, six, to actinic, 15 Sep (PBa); Bonchurch, one, 18 Aug (JHa)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1029718562011
11700358019512019
12755919512015

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11882
12384

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC11: Acres Down, two, 08 Aug (CWlk); Woodlands, New Forest, present, 09 Aug (RBW); Dibden Purlieu, one, to actinic, 13 Aug; one, to actinic, 14 Aug (RAC); Milford on Sea, one, 09 Aug (MMcM); Pennington, one, 11 Sep (RFC);

VC12: Liss Forest*, one, 15 Aug (RJM); Castle Bottom NNR, three, 1 ♂ confirmed by gen det, 16 Aug; four, to actinic, 16 Aug (JHH)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1012319681997
1115313319492019
12835519512014

2020 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: Cholderton, one, 17 Jul (TJN, HE)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10431718002015
11667818002019
124610519002016

2020 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: Shanklin Upper Chine, one, 25 May (IOu)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1019452435119512019
112217022030119512019
1258615367319002019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10178164251
111381847370
12537365280

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: West High Down Quarry, 07 Aug, 3 (IOu) Latest: Briddlesford Big Wood, Wootton Bridge, 20 May, 1 (IOu) Max count: Shanklin, 24 Jun, 51 (IOu)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 23 May, 9 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 02 Jun, 0 (JRL) Max count: Fareham, 09 Jun, 70 (IMcP)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 16 May, 1 (CM) Latest: Yateley, 08 Aug, 1 (JHH) Max count: Basingstoke, 01 Jun, 80 (MJW)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1037655019512019
11565776542002019
121302185319512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1046859
114285506
1212823328

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Headon Warren, 17 Sep, 1 (PBa) Latest: Sandown, 05 Aug, 1 (JMar) Max count: St Lawrence: Salem Close, 26 Sep, 9 (PBa)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 19 Sep, 1 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 31 Oct, 1 (JRL) Max count: Fareham, 15 Aug, 6 (KJW)

VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 08 Aug, 1 (TJN, HE) Latest: Yateley, 08 Sep, 1 (JHH) Max count: Crawley, 12 Aug, 28 (GCE)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10597267119812019
1162121472119492019
122173791619512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
105518615
11495106012
1220277834

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Freshwater Cliffs, 02 Jul, 1 (SDa) Latest: East Cowes, 30 May, 1 (TWhi) Max count: Bonchurch, 24 Jun, 15 (JHa)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 13 Jun, 3 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 29 Jun, 1 (JGe) Max count: Southampton, 19 Jun, 10 (MGP)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 12 Jun, 1 (CM) Latest: Yateley, 23 Jun, 12 (JHH) Max count: Barton Stacey, 25 Jun, 34 (GCE)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1010219092013
1114723519492016
12334319512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11111
12221

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC11: Furze Hill, NF, one, to light, 17 Jul (SLo det. MJW);

VC12: Liss Forest, one, 15 Aug (RJM); Whitehill, one, to actinic, 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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10374119018562019
11191419742017
121119621962

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10145413

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: West High Down Quarry, eight, 07 Aug; one, 20 Aug (IOu); Freshwater Cliffs, three, 02 Jul; 10, 09 Jul; six, 16 Jul; two, 03 Aug; four, 09 Aug (SDa); Cranmore, present, to actinic, 11 Jul (CHic); St Lawrence Undercliff, three, to actinic, 28 Sep; St Lawrence: Salem Close, one, to actinic, 01 Oct; one, to actinic, 02 Oct; Ventnor Botanic Garden, 13, to actinic, 29 Sep (PBa); Rookley, one, to actinic, 05 Jul (JBa); Shanklin, one, 09 Aug (IOu)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101301390319512019
1123536728512002019
1254291955519512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1013145521
111343366741
12482174037

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: West High Down Quarry, 07 Aug, 15 (IOu) Latest: Bembridge Fort, 06 Aug, 2 (IOu) Max count: Shanklin, 09 Aug, 21 (IOu)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 26 Apr, 3 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 02 Jun, 0 (JRL) Max count: Pennington, 14 Aug, 41 (RFC)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 07 May, 1 (CM) Latest: Yateley, 17 Aug, 3 (JHH) Max count: Crawley, 12 Aug, 37 (GCE)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10570146119512019
113576491019492019
1260772019492019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1056673
1181853
1228323

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: West High Down Quarry, 20 Aug, 1 (IOu) Latest: Shanklin, 25 Sep, 1 (IOu) Max count: St Lawrence: Salem Close, 28 Sep, 3 (PBa)

VC11: Earliest: Marchwood, 20 Jun, 3 (CTh) Latest: Southsea, 15 Aug, 1 (JGe) Max count: Marchwood, 20 Jun, 3 (CTh)

VC12: Earliest: Chilbolton, 20 May, 1 (GCE) Latest: Yateley, 17 Aug, 1 (JHH) Max count: Crawley, 12 Aug, 3 (GCE)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10781363419512019
1169281590719512019
122632846519482019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
104913617
111722124
12771095

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Kingston, 17 Jun, 4 (ENes) Latest: Broadley Copse, 25 Jun, 1 (JBa) Max count: Kingston, 24 Jun, 17 (ENes)

VC11: Earliest: Marchwood, 24 Jun, 1 (CTh) Latest: Pilley Bailey, NF, 07 Jul, 1 (RBW, MWa) Max count: Sway, 25 Jun, 4 (SKe)

VC12: Earliest: Teg Down, Winchester, 14 Jun, 1 (CKn) Latest: Yateley, 23 Jun, 2 (JHH) Max count: Barton Stacey, 25 Jun, 5 (GCE)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101717603219512019
1120309583172002019
1259332249119512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
108315612
115719119
1222444144

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, 12 (IOu) Latest: Bembridge Fort, 06 Aug, 2 (IOu) Max count: West High Down Quarry, 07 Aug, 12 (IOu)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 07 Aug, 1 (SDut) Latest: Norleywood, NF, 09 Aug, 0 (RBW, MWa) Max count: Lee, 18 Jul, 9 (CTh)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 07 May, 1 (CM) Latest: Yateley, 08 Sep, 1 (JHH) Max count: Cholderton, 08 Aug, 44 (TJN, HE)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10272920082019
1110920062019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
108112

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Freshwater, one, 28 Sep (DBW); Freshwater Bay, one, 07 Nov (SDa); Bonchurch, one, 02 Oct; two, 22 Oct; two, 26 Oct; one, 28 Oct; one, 08 Nov; two, 10 Nov (JHa)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10526518922019
11897100819512019
1237042419512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
109112
1121232
1212224

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Borthwood Copse, Winford, two, 23 Jun; Shanklin, one, 17 Jun; one, 21 Jun; one, 24 Jun; one, 25 Jun; one, 01 Jul; two, 05 Jul; one, 06 Jul; one, 12 Jul (IOu);

VC11: Marchwood, one, 20 Jun (CTh); Woodlands, New Forest, present, 06 Jul (RBW); Ashurst, NF, one, 24 Jun (SAB); Romsey, one, 24 Jun (SC); Kings Somborne, one, to actinic, 11 Jun (GCE); Blackfied, one, to lighted window, 24 Aug (PGS); Winchester, one, 09 Jun (THW); Wickham, two, 13 Jun; one, 14 Jun; one, 16 Jun; one, 17 Jun; one, 19 Jun; two, 22 Jun; one, 23 Jun; one, 29 Jun; two, 22 Aug (JRDS); Sway, one, 17 Jun; one, 22 Jun (SKe); Milford on Sea, one, 08 Jun (MMcM);

VC12: Anna Valley, Andover, two, 23 Jun (TJN); Wherwell, one, to actinic, 13 Jun; Barton Stacey, one, to actinic, 08 Jun; one, to actinic, 22 Jun; one, to actinic, 12 Jul (GCE); Beech, one, 19 Jun; one, 02 Aug (NDP); Pamber Forest, one, 15 Jun; three, 01 Jul (GJD); Liss Forest, four, 27 Jun (RJM); Fleet, three, 03 Jul (MHals); Yateley, three, 23 Jun (JHH)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10657185119812019
112877594819482019
121415315219512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10401098
1112221511
127813111

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Cranmore, 30 May, 0 (CHic) Latest: Borthwood Copse, Winford, 23 Jun, 3 (IOu) Max count: Shanklin, 13 Jun, 8 (IOu)

VC11: Earliest: Woodlands, New Forest, 28 May, 0 (RBW) Latest: Pennington, 01 Jul, 1 (RFC) Max count: Kings Somborne, 11 Jun, 11 (GCE)

VC12: Earliest: Broughton, 29 May, 2 (GCE) Latest: Hammer Vale, Woolmer, 23 Jun, 1 (ASw) Max count: Ropley, 26 May, 11 (TJN, LF)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10521179119592019
1161681621719472019
122005804919502019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1025455
111121619
12751046

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: West High Down Quarry, 20 Aug, 1 (IOu) Latest: Ryde, 03 Sep, 2 (IPra) Max count: Freshwater, 12 Sep, 5 (PBa)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 22 Aug, 1 (SDut) Latest: Pennington, 25 Sep, 1 (RFC) Max count: Pennington, 08 Sep, 9 (RFC)

VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 11 Aug, 3 (TJN, LF) Latest: Church Crookham, 09 Sep, 3 (DDim) Max count: Crawley, 12 Aug, 6 (GCE)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10716519512019
111280238719512019
1222528319512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10111
1131301
12111

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Shanklin, one, 17 Apr (IOu);

VC11: Brockwood, one, 08 Apr (SDut); Woodlands, New Forest, present, 05 Apr (RBW); Ashurst, NF, one, 21 Apr; one, 25 Apr (SAB); Romsey, one, 16 Apr (MB); one, 12 Apr (NRJ); Dibden Purlieu, one, to actinic, 12 Apr; one, to actinic, 19 Apr; one, to actinic, 20 Apr; one, to actinic, 21 Apr; one, to actinic, 24 Apr; one, to actinic, 25 Apr; one, to actinic, 26 Apr; one, to actinic, 27 Apr; one, to actinic, 09 May (RAC); Blackfied, one, to lighted window, 22 Mar (PGS); Botley Wood, one, 17 Mar (KJW); Burton, nr Christchurch, one, 08 May (JSw); Sway, one, 18 Apr; one, 19 Apr (SKe); Boldre, one, 24 Apr (JDur);

VC12: Overton, one, 12 Apr (MSi)

73.337 [B&F: 2140] White-marked Cerastis leucographa ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Local

Local in broad-leaved woodland, mature hedgerows and scrub, discontinuously in England from Kent to Yorkshire. In Hampshire nearly all records are from the north, where it has been found in scattered locations, with exceptionally stragglers reported in the south. Not recorded from the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 35-39 mm. Differs from Red Chestnut C. rubricosa as follows: antenna in male more strongly pectinate; forewing duller and more strongly marked, particularly the pale stigmata; hindwing paler (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on various herbaceous and woody plants, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
117819742014
1211914319512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
12331

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC12: Chilbolton, one, to actinic, 01 Apr (GCE); Cheriton, one, to actinic, 11 Apr (DAS); Alton, one, to actinic, 09 Apr (DBO)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1025257219002019
1136201392919512019
12611252419512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10651
11192714140
1283654156

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Cranmore, 17 Jul, 0 (CHic) Latest: Shanklin, 22 Jul, 1 (IOu) Max count: Ningwood Common, 03 Jun, 1 (JMar)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 13 Jun, 1 (SDut) Latest: Pilley Bailey, NF, 07 Jul, 1 (RBW, MWa) Max count: Pig Bush, NF, 18 Jul, 140 (CL)

VC12: Earliest: Harewood Forest, 23 Jul, 1 (GCE) Latest: Yateley, 31 Jul, 4 (JHH) Max count: Liss Forest, 25 Jul, 156 (RJM)

73.339 [B&F: 2105] Dotted Rustic Rhyacia simulans (Hufnagel, 1766) - Local

Local in gardens, hedgerows, woodland, moorland and mountains, discontinuously across much of the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight very occasionally recorded when the species is doing well nationally. Wingspan 45-60 mm. The most likely confusion species is Northern Rustic Standfussiana lucernea, which see for differences. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants and grasses.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
103219811994
11261219452007
12241119512008

2020 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: Alton, one, 20 Aug (EFig)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1029162723519512019
11334312560762002019
12920211089419482019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10213174398
111721894382
126284827102

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Headon Warren, 17 Sep, 12 (PBa) Latest: Seaview, 04 Sep, 1 (JMas) Max count: Compton Down, 14 Sep, 98 (PBa)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 16 May, 1 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 13 Nov, 1 (JRL) Max count: Kings Somborne, 08 Sep, 82 (GCE)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 12 Jun, 1 (CM) Latest: Yateley, 08 Sep, 39 (JHH) Max count: Cholderton, 12 Sep, 102 (TJN, LF)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10550101219512019
1171631115719482019
122124394419482019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1055999
1136561211
1215829027

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Headon Warren, 17 Sep, 1 (PBa) Latest: Sandown, 10 Aug, 1 (JMar) Max count: Totland, 20 Sep, 9 (RTe)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 29 Aug, 1 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 21 Sep, 1 (JGe) Max count: Romsey, 16 Sep, 9 (MB)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 22 Sep, 1 (CM) Latest: Yateley, 08 Sep, 4 (JHH) Max count: Alton, 15 Sep, 27 (CJP)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
107018001894
11392518002012
12447618002019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11111

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC11: Broughton, one, to actinic, 31 Aug (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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10875197319572019
1115072439572002019
1232401007519492019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
109830722
11718214023
1223859118

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: West High Down Quarry, 07 Aug, 1 (IOu) Latest: Ryde, 03 Sep, 3 (IPra) Max count: Totland, 20 Sep, 22 (RTe)

VC11: Earliest: Acres Down, 08 Aug, 1 (CWlk) Latest: Southsea, 10 Nov, 1 (JRL) Max count: Pennington, 18 Sep, 23 (RFC)

VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 17 Jul, 1 (TJN, HE) Latest: Yateley, 08 Sep, 6 (JHH) Max count: Anna Valley, Andover, 14 Sep, 18 (TJN)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1010913319732019
111901254119512019
1257781619002019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10992
1141442
1217223

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Freshwater Cliffs, one, 09 Aug (SDa); Freshwater Bay, one, to actinic, 13 Sep (PBa); Cranmore, present, to actinic, 25 Jul (CHic); Haseley Manor, two, 11 Aug; Shanklin, one, 07 Aug; one, 09 Aug; one, 11 Aug; one, 10 Sep; Shanklin Upper Chine, one, 08 Aug (IOu);

VC11: Acres Down, one, 08 Aug (CWlk); Ashurst, NF, one, 08 Aug (SAB); Totton, one, 26 Aug (LH); Stanbrige Earls, one, to actinic, 09 Aug (JRMi); Romsey, one, 06 Aug; one, 08 Aug (MB); Broughton, one, to actinic, 06 Aug (GCE); Southampton, one, 22 Jul; one, 09 Aug; one, 22 Aug (MEdg); Allbrook, one, 30 Jul; one, 09 Aug (SI); Winchester, two, 31 Jul; two, 07 Aug (THW); Stubbington, one, to actinic, 11 Aug (WMay); Fareham, one, 09 Aug (ADT); one, to actinic, 09 Aug (MLO); one, 08 Aug; one, 10 Aug (KJW); Wickham Common, one, 09 Aug (KC); Wickham, one, 23 Jul; one, 09 Aug; two, 17 Aug (JRDS); Portchester, one, 25 Aug; one, 26 Aug (JGe); Portsmouth, one, 12 Aug (IRT); West Walk, two, 14 Aug; Hen Wood, one, 24 Jul (F.M.G.); Northney, Hayling Island, present, 26 Aug (JWP); Tuckton, Bournemouth, one, 11 Sep; one, 14 Sep (APar); Everton, one, 10 Sep (MMcM); Pennington, one, 07 Aug; one, 08 Aug; one, 26 Aug (RFC);

VC12: Cholderton, three, 08 Aug (TJN, HE); Chilbolton, one, to actinic, 02 Aug (GCE); one, to actinic, 09 Aug (SLE det. GCE); Crawley, one, to actinic, 30 Jul (GCE); Harestock, one, to actinic, 26 Aug; one, to actinic, 27 Aug (GRog); Barton Stacey, one, to actinic, 11 Aug (GCE); Cheriton, one, to actinic, 31 Jul (DAS); Pamber Forest, one, 31 Jul (GJD); Liss, three, 29 Aug (LBe); Alton, one, to actinic, 11 Aug; one, to actinic, 14 Sep; two, to actinic, 22 Sep (BCA); Castle Bottom NNR, one, 16 Aug (JHH); Farnborough, one, 31 Jul (KBW); Yateley, one, 12 Aug; one, 08 Sep (JHH)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10507120062019
1123432120012019
121120192019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10672
1149454
12551

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Bonchurch, one, 24 Jun; one, 25 Jun; one, 12 Jul; two, 13 Jul (JHa); Shanklin, one, 09 Aug (IOu); East Cowes, one, to actinic, 08 Aug (TWhi);

VC11: Dibden Purlieu*, one, to actinic, 14 Aug (RAC); Catisfield, one, 07 Aug (ALR det. KJW); Fareham, two, to actinic, 09 Aug (MLO); one, 05 Aug; one, 11 Aug (KJW); Wickham, one, 07 Aug (F.M.G. det. KJW); Wickham Common, one, 13 Jul (KC); Portsmouth, one, 24 Jun; one, 26 Jun; one, 21 Jul; one, 07 Aug; one, 10 Aug (IRT); Northney, Hayling Island, present, 17 Jun; present, 19 Jun; present, 24 Jun; present, 26 Jun; present, 29 Jun; present, 03 Jul; present, 05 Jul; present, 06 Jul; present, 07 Jul; present, 08 Jul; present, 11 Jul; present, 11 Jul; present, 13 Jul; present, 13 Jul; present, 15 Jul; present, 16 Jul; present, 31 Jul (JWP); Horndean*, one, to actinic, 18 Jul; three, to actinic, 22 Aug; two, to actinic, 31 Aug (PHog); Tuckton, Bournemouth*, two, not verified, 16 Sep (APar); Lymington, one, 13 Jul (ASH);

VC12: Preston Candover, one, 12 Jul; Basingstoke*, one, 26 Jun (MJW); Pamber Forest*, one, 26 Aug (GJD); Whitehill*, one, to actinic, 03 Aug (ASto); Farnborough*, one, 27 Jul (KBW)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10987639319772019
1111077447712002019
1230981939519502019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
109356753
11556204257
1223773938

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: West High Down Quarry, 07 Aug, 35 (IOu) Latest: Seaview, 18 Aug, 1 (JMas) Max count: Shanklin, 09 Aug, 53 (IOu)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 07 Aug, 3 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 31 Aug, 1 (JGe) Max count: Romsey, 20 Aug, 57 (MB)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 27 Aug, 2 (CM) Latest: Yateley, 08 Sep, 7 (JHH) Max count: Yateley, 17 Aug, 38 (JHH)

73.351 [B&F: 2114] Double Dart Graphiphora augur (Fabricius, 1775) - Common

A species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Occurs in broad-leaved woodland, scrub, hedgerows, parks, marshes, river-banks, damp areas, fens and gardens throughout much of the British Isles, In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight historically widespread in the mainland vice-counties, but seldom common; it is found in open woodland and bushy places on and off the chalk, but has decreased considerably and recent records have centered on the Test valley with occasional records from the border with Dorset in the south-west. Wingspan 38-48 mm. Dotted Rustic Rhyacia simulans has a narrower forewing and never has black outlines to the stigmata; Stout Dart Spaelotis ravida also has a narrower forewing with a fine, black streak at the base, no claviform stigma and a much paler hindwing (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on Sallow, Silver Birch, Downy Birch, Blackthorn, Hawthorn and Broad-leaved Dock.

Records prior to 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
102219101986
11552218002011
12977319482014

2020 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: Wherwell, one, to actinic, 29 Jun (GCE)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1015125718562019
1122318019492019
1234645619512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10782
11331
12661

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Shanklin, one, 07 Jun; one, 09 Jun; one, 12 Jun; one, 15 Jun; two, 24 Jun; one, 25 Jun; one, 07 Jul (IOu);

VC11: Kings Somborne, one, to actinic, 09 Jul (GCE); Romsey, one, to actinic, 03 Jun (NRJ); Kings Somborne, one, to actinic, 09 Jul (GCE);

VC12: Chilbolton, one, to actinic, 03 Jun; Harewood Forest, one, to actinic, 24 Jun; Crawley, one, to actinic, 09 Jun; Barton Stacey, one, to actinic, 22 Jun (GCE); Basingstoke, one, 20 Jun (MJW); Chawton, one, 02 Jul (DAS)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
108118561982
1148653919512019
1216123819512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11111
12441

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC11: Ashurst, NF, one, 15 Sep (SAB);

VC12: Pamber Forest, one, 02 Sep; one, 15 Aug; one, 26 Aug (GJD); Fleet, one, 16 Aug (MHals)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
107118562019
1140048319492019
12708519512012

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1123344
12991

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC11: Brockwood, one, 19 Sep (SDut); Beaulieu Heath, NF, present, 08 Sep (iNat); Ashurst, NF, one, 18 Sep (SAB); Dibden Purlieu, two, 13 Sep; two, 14 Sep; one, 15 Sep; one, 16 Sep; one, 19 Sep; one, 20 Sep; one, 13 Sep; four, 15 Sep; two, 16 Sep; one, 20 Sep (RAC);

VC12: Liss Forest*, one, 19 Sep (RJM); Whitehill, one, 08 Sep; one, 14 Sep; one, 15 Sep; one, 18 Sep (ASto); Castle Bottom NNR, one, 16 Aug; one, to actinic, 16 Aug (JHH); Fleet, one, 16 Aug (MHals); Yateley*, one, 08 Sep (JHH)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10131019582019
1140745319512019
12273319512016

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1012185
117518211
12662

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC10: Headon Warren, three, to actinic, 17 Sep (PBa); West High Down Quarry, five, to light, 08 Sep (IOu); Freshwater Bay, one, to actinic, 15 Sep; Freshwater, one, to actinic, 13 Sep; one, to actinic, 14 Sep; one, to actinic, 15 Sep; Compton Down, one, to actinic, 14 Sep (PBa); Cranmore, present, to actinic, 15 Sep (CHic); Bonchurch, two, 06 Sep; one, 28 Sep (JHa); Shanklin*, one, 11 Sep; one, 12 Sep (IOu);

VC11: Brockwood, two, 12 Sep (SDut); Brockenhurst, present, 07 Sep (iNat); Woodlands, New Forest, present, 07 Sep (RBW); Dibden Purlieu, one, to actinic, 07 Aug; one, to actinic, 11 Aug; one, to actinic, 12 Aug; one, to actinic, 15 Aug; one, 04 Sep; two, 15 Sep; two, 18 Sep; one, 19 Sep; two, 20 Sep; one, 21 Sep; one, 22 Sep; one, 28 Sep; two, to actinic, 07 Aug; two, to actinic, 08 Aug; three, to actinic, 09 Aug; two, to actinic, 10 Aug; four, to actinic, 12 Aug; two, to actinic, 13 Aug; one, to actinic, 15 Aug; one, 05 Sep; two, 09 Sep; one, 10 Sep; five, 11 Sep; five, 12 Sep; three, 13 Sep; seven, 14 Sep; 11, 15 Sep; five, 16 Sep; four, 17 Sep; three, 18 Sep; three, 19 Sep; three, 20 Sep; one, 21 Sep; one, 28 Sep (RAC); Botley, one, to actinic, 08 Sep (SLB); Stroud, Petersfield*, one, to actinic, 16 Sep (RAll); Burton, nr Christchurch, one, 14 Aug; three, 11 Sep (JSw); Sway, three, 10 Sep (S&SL);

VC12: Alton, one, to actinic, 14 Sep (BCA); Whitehill, two, 08 Sep; one, 11 Sep; one, 12 Sep; one, 14 Sep (ASto); Castle Bottom NNR, present, netted, 18 May (JHH)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101162722719512019
1115686788632002019
1236892763819512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
101081747216
119045136128
12300173847

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Headon Warren, 17 Sep, 2 (PBa) Latest: Seaview, 11 Sep, 2 (JMas) Max count: Compton Down, 13 Sep, 216 (PBa)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 14 Aug, 1 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 30 Sep, 1 (JGe) Max count: Broughton, 31 Aug, 128 (GCE)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 27 Aug, 3 (CM) Latest: Yateley, 08 Sep, 29 (JHH) Max count: Ecchinswell, 07 Sep, 47 (MJN)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1014527619032019
112470645919512019
12823246919512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1015233
11831124
1239678

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: West High Down Quarry, 20 Aug, 2 (IOu) Latest: Shanklin, 16 Aug, 2 (IOu) Max count: Rookley, 28 Aug, 3 (JBa)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 22 Aug, 3 (SDut) Latest: Pilley Bailey, NF, 03 Aug, 1 (RBW, MWa) Max count: Southampton, 26 Aug, 4 (MEdg)

VC12: Earliest: Chilbolton, 17 Aug, 1 (GCE) Latest: Fleet, 11 Aug, 1 (MHals) Max count: Anna Valley, Andover, 14 Sep, 8 (TJN)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101578832619512019
1120091990762002019
1259325345619512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1010341626
11739173940
123472059186

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Headon Warren, 17 Sep, 2 (PBa) Latest: Ryde, 01 Sep, 1 (IPra) Max count: Freshwater, 12 Sep, 26 (PBa)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 27 May, 1 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 01 Jun, 1 (JRL) Max count: Wickham, 22 Aug, 40 (JRDS)

VC12: Earliest: Over Wallop, 27 Aug, 6 (CM) Latest: Yateley, 08 Sep, 3 (JHH) Max count: Crawley, 12 Aug, 186 (GCE)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1030562619512019
114004652019512019
122240600019482019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1027576
111311816
1212321313

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Kingston, 22 Jun, 1 (ENes) Latest: Broadley Copse, 25 Jun, 1 (JBa) Max count: Haseley Manor, 06 Jul, 6 (IOu)

VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 11 Jul, 1 (SDut) Latest: Pilley Bailey, NF, 07 Jul, 1 (RBW, MWa) Max count: Wickham, 23 Jul, 6 (JRDS)

VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 10 Jul, 1 (TJN, HE) Latest: Yateley, 23 Jun, 4 (JHH) Max count: Axmansford, 13 Jul, 13 (ACB)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10787418562019
11706120019512019
1222237019512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1041613
1133413
12155415

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC10: Headon Warren, 13, to actinic, 17 Sep (PBa); Kingston*, one, field observation, 14 Sep; one, field observation, 14 Sep (CHer det. JBa); Wheelers Bay, one, 21 Sep (ABu);

VC11: Brockwood, one, 05 Sep; three, 19 Sep (SDut); Denny Lodge, NF, present, 08 Sep (iNat); Woodlands, New Forest, present, 08 Sep (RBW); Ashurst, NF, one, 15 Sep; one, 18 Sep (SAB); East Tytherley, one, to actinic, 14 Sep; one, to actinic, 14 Sep; two, to actinic, 14 Sep (GCE); Romsey, one, 18 Sep (NRJ); Broughton, two, to actinic, 21 Sep; three, to actinic, 21 Sep; one, to actinic, 21 Sep; two, to actinic, 21 Sep; two, to actinic, 21 Sep; one, to actinic, 21 Sep (GCE); Dibden Purlieu, one, 16 Sep; one, 17 Sep; two, 18 Sep; one, 02 Sep; one, 18 Sep; one, 22 Sep (RAC); Burton, nr Christchurch, one, 15 Sep (JSw); Sway, one, 16 Sep (S&SL); Pennington, one, 19 Sep; one, 21 Sep (RFC);

VC12: Over Wallop, two, 12 Sep; one, 15 Sep (CM); Cholderton, four, field observation, 05 Sep; 15, field observation, 12 Sep (TJN, LF); Chilbolton, three, to actinic, 10 Sep; one, to actinic, 19 Sep (SLE); Bullington*, one, to actinic, 20 Sep (GCE); Beech*, one, 14 Sep; three, 16 Sep (NDP); Liss Forest*, one, 12 Sep (RJM); Whitehill, one, 15 Sep; one, 28 Sep (ASto); Yateley*, one, 08 Sep (JHH)

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 2020

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10232118562015
1133129919512019
1224024419512019

2020 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11111

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC11: Totton, one, 31 Jul (LH)