Photo © Dan Houghton

Pyrausta sanguinalis

Checklist Number
63.004 [B&F: 1364]

Verification
Record will require further evidence, at least a good photograph, unless CMR is aware recorder has confidence in identification

Classification

Family:Crambidae
Subfamily:Pyraustinae
Genus:Pyrausta
Species:sanguinalis
Authority:(Linnaeus, 1767)

While a widespread but local species across much of the continent, in the UK populations are limited to a few colonies in sand-dunes and on limestone pavements in parts of western Ireland, northern Wales and the Isle of Man, and it is a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Therefore, one turning up at light in Stubbington in 2023 was probably one of the more surprising mothing events of the 21st Century, presumably relating to a primary migrant from the continent. Wingspan 14-18 mm. Somewhat variable in the brightness and contrast of the markings, but unlikely to be confused with any other British Pyrausta [Goater]. Larva feeds on Wild Thyme.

The abundance in each month is indicated as follows:

No records
Very occasional
Irregular
Uncommon
Off-peak, but not unusual
Off-peak, but not unusual
Main flight time
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Adult
Larval

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

VC11 South Hampshire

Site Date Quantity Recorder Stage
Stubbington (SU50)16/06/2023oneDan HoughtonAdult