Identification

Very distinctive with fine black markings on creamy forewings. Specimen or quality photo required for record acceptance.

Life cycle

One generation that is later than stated in Waring. Overwinters as a larva during September to May, pupating in loose earth.

Larval foodplants

Larvae feed on Wood Sage, Yarrow, Mugwort and stonecrops.

Habitat

Mainly coastal, especially rocky shores and grassland.

History

First recorded in Dumfries and Galloway for VC74 near Monreith, Port William in 1899 by Morton by who took ‘one dark specimen’ in July.  The first record for VC73  was not until 1974 from Gatehouse of Fleet in the Rothamsted moth trap.  Since then the majority of records are from coastal sites in Kirkcudbrightshire.