Hantsmoths

Nationally scarce (Nb) on chalk downland and in woodland clearings in parts of southern England. In Hampshire widespread across the chalk in the north of the county, and occasionally numerous, as at Micheldever Spoil Heaps in 2005 and Danebury in 1999, but distinctly uncommon in the south and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 28-35 mm. The most likely confusion species is Sitochroa verticalis, from which distinguished by the characteristic shape of the cross-lines. Larva feeds on Common Knapweed, Great Mullein and Stinging Nettle.