Identification

Fairly unmistakable. Due to its rarity status specimen or quality photo required for record acceptance.

Life cycle

One generation. Overwinters as a small larva, during August to May, with pupation close to the ground in a cocoon.

Larval foodplants

Unknown, but probably lichens, mosses and algae on marsh plants.

Habitat

Fens, damp grassland, wetter areas on moorland, marshes and coastal dunes.

History 1860-2010

The first records came in July, 1981, from the Waterside Mains Rothamsted station at Keir, where it was recorded on six occasions. During 1987-92 at the Mabie Forest station, it was recorded a dozen times.

It then occurred thrice at Auchencairn, 2003, 2007 and 2009, with further sightings from Kirriereoch in 2007, Galloway Farm (VC74) in 2008, and in 2009 at Low Kirkbride Farm (VC73) and between Dunscore and Low Kilbride (VC72).

Waring et al. only mentions it for the lowlands between Forth and Clyde.