Hantsmoths

Local on chalk and limestone downland, and, on cultivated forms of the foodplant, in gardens throughout much of England; also in South Wales and on the Burren. In Hampshire most likely to be encountered in the south-east and the extreme north-east of the county, and largely absent from the New Forest and much of north Hampshire. On the Isle of Wight, known only from Freshwater, where first recorded in 1989, and again in 1995 and 1996. Wingspan 15-17 mm. Unmistakable. Larva feeds within needles of Juniper, subsequently living within a silken web.