Hantsmoths

Local in gardens, roadside verges, hedgerows, scrub, downland and embankments throughout much of southern England. First recorded in 1831 in the London area, since when has slowly spread up the Thames Valley, and into Essex and Kent, thence along the south coast as far as Scilly and northwards to Cheshire. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight first recorded in 1977 at Ashurst, then Highcliffe and Hayling Island in 1984, all in vice-county 11. The first Isle of Wight record was in 1991. Since then, very small numbers have occurred in all three vice-counties: it is evidently spreading westwards from its headquarters in the Thames Estuary. Wingspan 19-21 mm. Fairly unmistakable. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Ivy and Traveller's-joy.