Small Dotted Footman

Pelosia obtusa

Checklist Number
72.040 [B&F: 2042]

Verification
Record will require further evidence, at least a good photograph, unless CMR is aware recorder has confidence in identification

Classification

Family:Erebidae
Subfamily:Arctiinae
Genus:Pelosia
Species:obtusa
Authority:(Herrich-Schäffer, 1851)

A vulnerable Red Data Book species, in reed-beds, in East Anglia. It was first recorded in the Norfolk Broads in 1961 with the existence of a colony at Hickling being confirmed by a number of sightings in the 1980s. Although it is now known from four 10km squares, the occupied sites are not large and are rather close together (MBGBI Vol 9). Not recorded in Hampshire or on the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 25-30 mm. The most likely confusion species is Dotted Footman P. muscerda, which see for differences. Larva feeds on various lichens.