Hantsmoths

Common immigrant from southern Europe, appearing throughout the British Isles, in some years arriving in sufficient numbers to breed. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight appears annually in varying numbers - particularly abundant in 2003. Has been recorded in winter, and is known to hibernate, and therefore spring records may refer to overwintering individuals rather than new immigrants. Wingspan 50-58 mm. An unmistakable diurnal moth, which hovers to nectar from the flowers of many plant species, amongst which are Aubrieta, Buddleia, Viper's Bugloss Echium vulgare, Red Valerian Centranthus ruber, Honeysuckle Lonicera, Nepeta, Petunia, Jasminum and Pulmonaria. Larva feeds on Lady's Bedstraw, Hedge Bedstraw and Wild Madder.