Identification

The fine, jagged and irregular outer cross-line on the forewing and hindwing, which is speckled with green and black should distinguish it.

Recording method

Comes to light.

Life cycle

One generation. Overwinters as a larva from late August to end of May. Pupations takes place in a cocoon among lichens.

Larval foodplants

Larvae feed on lichens.

Habitat

Scrub. Also woodland and rocky coasts.

History

First recorded for Dumfries and Galloway in 1860 for VC72 near Dumfries by Lennon, in 1899 for VC74 at Monreith Park by Morton but not until 1974 for VC73 in the Gatehouse of Fleet Rothamsted moth trap.