Hantsmoths

Suspected rare immigrant, or perhaps accidentally imported, from southern Europe. Usually discovered as larvae in produce purchased from supermarkets, although occasionally taken at light under circumstances consistent with arrival as genuine migrants. Not recorded in Hampshire or on the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 14-15 mm. Identification depends on dissection of the genitalia. Larva feeds on Potato and Tomato, causing sufficient damage to be a serious pest in some areas, over-wintering as a pupa.