Identification

The small white forewing with a central cross-band that is dark grey at either end, but fading in the middle, make it a very distinctive moth. Specimen or quality photo required for record acceptance.

Recording method

Flies in sunshine in the afternoon, also comes to light.

Life cycle

One generation. Overwinters as a pupa in an earthen cocoon. Larvae are present early August to mid September.

Larval foodplants

Larvae feed on the flowers and seeds of Eyebright.

Habitat

Open habitats like rank roadside verges, moorland and upland pasture.

History

First recorded for Dumfries and Galloway in 1997 for VC72 at Kirkton by Richard Mearns, and in 2008 for VC73 at Low Camer Wood by Geoff Shaw.  Not yet recorded for VC74.