See also Moth of the Week (13/06/2024)

Identification

The position of the discal spot on the forewing is the key. However, due to the difficulty of separating this species from Lead Belle a voucher specimen or good quality photo is required for record acceptance.

Life cycle

One generation. It overwinters as a larva, during September to May, pupating in a cocoon in plant debris.

Larval foodplant

The larval foodplants are Dyer’s Greenweed, Broom and Gorse, from which it may be disturbed during the day.

Habitat

Open, scrubby habitats on heathland, moorland and the coast.

History

First recorded in Dumfries and Galloway in 1862 in VC72 near The Craigs, Dumfries by Lennon.  The first record for VC73 was in 1874 at Castle Douglas by Robinson-Douglas who noted that it was ‘fairly common’.  First recorded in VC74 in 1899 near Monreith by Morton who regarded it as ‘common’.