Identification

A dark brown moth lacking sub-basal lines and raised scales found in the similar Ortholepis betulae.

Recording method

Attracted to light. Often disturbed in the field.

Flight period

June-August.

Larval foodplants

Heathers.

Habitat

Heathland.

History

The first for Dumfries & Galloway was found at Portling, Kirkcudbrightshire, on 26th August 1976 by Sir Arthur Duncan, who found the first for Dumfriesshire at Kettletonhead on 13th July 1977, both specimens at National Museums Scotland, with the Wigtownshire first being found at Tandoo Point on 29th July 2012.