All moths species have been assigned a grading representing how easy or difficult the species is to identify. The  grading may differ for different life-cycle stages.

Please note that, regardless of the identification guidelines given above, all new Vice-county records should be supported by one or more good quality images showing all of the critical identification features or by a specimen.

Micros

Many micros can be readily found at different life-cycle stages. For some it can be difficult/impossible to identify them as adults whilst the leaf mine may be distinctive; conversely others may be easily recognised as adults but hard to separate at other life-cycle stages. The National Moth Recording Scheme has issued verification guidelines depending on whether you are identifying an adult, a leaf-mine or a case.  There are two particularly useful documents: an explanation of the various criteria and an Excel file listing the criteria required for each species.  This information can be downloaded from the Butterfly Conservation website here. These categories form the basis for any specific identification evidence requirements listed on the species accounts.

Adults

• Category 1: Generally distinctive species unlikely to be confused with other species. Usually accept record within documented range and usual occurrence period for the region; otherwise one or more good quality photographs, or possibly a specimen, would be required. Applies to species which will quickly become familiar to those gaining experience in micro-moths.
• Category 2:  Can be confused with other species. Good quality photographs or possibly a specimen will be required if the recorder is not familiar with the species. If records have previously been submitted and accepted, Category 1 criteria may apply subject to confirmation from your VCR. Worn examples are likely to be unidentifiable unless a specimen is retained for microscopic examination.
• Category 3:  Very scarce species (includes very scarce adventives/migrants). A voucher specimen may be required by your VCR (seek advice before releasing the moth). A good set of photographs showing all critical identification features clearly may suffice in some cases.
• Category 4: Dissection required.

Larval cases

For some species, evidence can be found in the presence of larval cases.  Identification of the foodplant (or other feeding matter) is often important and should be noted with the record.

• Category 1: Generally distinctive species unlikely to be confused with other species. Usually accept record within documented range and usual occurrence period for the region; otherwise one or more good quality photographs, or possibly a specimen, would be required. Applies to species which will quickly become familiar to those gaining experience in micro-moths.
• Category 2:  A good quality photo or specimen of the case and plant/pabulum is required.
• Category 3:  A good quality photo or specimen of the case and plant/pabulum and the bred moth is required.
• Category 4: Dissection required.

Leaf-mines

The larvae of some species produce mines on leaves of the host plant and is the most common method of recording for some families (e.g. Nepticulidae).

• Category A: Easily identified and record generally accepted without the need to see the actual leaf or a good photo.
• Category L: Either the leaf or a good photograph required.
• Category R: Moth needs to be reared and, in some cases, possibly dissected.