Hantsmoths

Common in a wide range of habitats throughout much of the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread and generally the commonest of the Cnephasia which occur in the county. Wingspan 18-22 mm. The largest of the British Cnephasia with relatively broad forewings having a dark ground colour and dark grey fascia; small specimens may be confused with C. asseclana but in that species the costal spot of the forewing is stronger and usually extends to the termen. Often readily identified on size alone, but can be determined with certainty only by dissection of the genitalia. Larva polyphagous on various herbaceous plants, living within a spun or rolled leaf.