Hantsmoths

Common immigrant from southern Europe, appearing throughout the British Isles, in some years arriving in sufficient numbers to breed. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight appears annually in varying numbers, and on average increasing year on year. Has been recorded in winter, and is known to hibernate, and therefore spring records likely refer to overwintering individuals rather than new immigrants. Wingspan 50-58 mm. An unmistakable diurnal moth, which hovers to nectar from the flowers of many plant species, amongst which are Aubrieta, Buddleia, Viper's Bugloss Echium vulgare, Red Valerian Centranthus ruber, Honeysuckle Lonicera, Nepeta, Petunia, Jasminum and Pulmonaria. Larva feeds on Lady's Bedstraw, Hedge Bedstraw and Wild Madder.