Hantsmoths

Common in calcareous grassland, fens, scrub, gardens, sea cliffs and sand-dunes throughout much of the British Isles, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight found mainly on the coast and on the chalk downs, where it is less frequent than Cloaked Minor M. furuncula. Wingspan 25-30 mm. Characterised by rosy light grey forewing, bisected by a straight transverse line immediately basal to the reniform stigma, the area between this and antemedian line purplish brown forming a distinct median band (MBGBI Vol 10). Larva feeds on various grasses, including Lyme-grass, Marram-grass, Cock's-foot and some cereal crops.