Identification

The reddish-brown forewing with white central spot and cross-line, together with its early flight time is diagnostic.
Due to its rarity status a specimen or quality photo required for record acceptance.

Life cycle

One generation. Overwinters as a pupa, in a cocoon close to the ground. During this phase it can pass anything between one and seven years before the adult emerges. Larvae are present April to July.

Larval foodplants

Larvae feed mainly on Blackthorn and Hawthorn, but also elms, Apple and Grey Willow.

Habitat

Hedgerows and scrub.

History 1860-2010

Only one record. Lennon (1863) had found it at Lochaber, close to Mabie Forest (VC73), but stated that it was not common.

The Moths of Great Britain and Ireland (1992) state it was formerly in southern Scotland but is in serious decline due to various changes in its habitat; it was widespread and locally common.