Hantsmoths

A vulnerable Red Data Book species, on shingle beaches, chalk sea cliffs and limestone cliffs in southern England, predominantly coastal, a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Single populations are known at Dungeness (Kent), near Gosport (Hampshire), and at least one site on the south coast of Devon between Sidmouth and Seaton. Records suggest there may be other populations on the south coasts of Dorset, Kent and the Isle of Wight. There appears to be no major threat to the single south Hampshire coastal site and the larval foodplant appears to be doing well. Sale leading to development of the MOD land on which it occurs is a potential threat, as is accidental damage during training exercises. Wingspan 30-38 mm. Larva feeds on seeds and seed capsules of Nottingham Catchfly, over-wintering as a pupa.

VC10 Isle of Wight

VC11 South Hampshire