Taken at Aston, Oxon., on June 30th 2026. (© David Hastings)
(Canon R6+RF100, f/10, 1/200th, ISO1250, 100mm)

Description

Family: Erebidae (ABH : 72.073)

Wing span: 14 - 16mm

This moth is very small, and is easily overlooked as it appears very similar to Tortrix moths. It has a thin, straight white central cross-line with darker brown shading on the basal side. The fine outer central cross-line is bent noticeably outwards in the leading half.

As an immigrant it is mostly found in southern counties of England, but it can penetrate further inland if weather conditions are favourable.

It is usually found in open, disturbed habitats.

It has two or more generations in Europe. In Britain it can be found from March to October. There is no evidence of over-wintering although larvae are sometimes found.

Larvae feed on the flowers of Common Fleabane and Ploughman's- spikenard.

Earliest UK sighting: 30th June

Sightings