Identification

The brown and blackish central cross-band, which is elbowed and divided in two on the forewings is diagnostic.

Recording method

Comes to light.

Life cycle

One generation. Overwinters as a pupa, in a cocoon underground. Larva mid-April to early June.

Larval foodplants

Larvae feed on Wild Privet and Ash.

Habitat

Open scrub or open woodland, rides and edges of woods, hedgerows.

Recorders’ notes

Due to its rarity status, a specimen or good quality photo is required for record acceptance.

History

Although this moth was first recorded for Dumfries and Galloway in 1862 for VC72 at the Crichton Institute, Dumfries by Lennon it was only known from the very south of England.  There are six other records but the only documented record is from 2000 also in VC72 from Durisdeer by Caroline Allen.