Hantsmoths

Local in damp grassland, marshes and river-banks throughout much of England, Wales and Scotland. In Hampshire it probably occurs in every extensive patch of butterbur in the county, especially along the Test and Itchen, and doubtless under-recorded owing to its secretive habits. Not recorded from the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 40-52 mm. Unlikely to be confused with any other species: Rosy Rustic H. micacea is usually considerably smaller, redder, with straighter postmedian line with sharply contrasting paler area beyond, and with paler hindwing; Marsh Mallow Moth H. osseola is the same size as Butterbur but the forewing is pale ochreous brown or putty-coloured, and the reniform stigma contains a dark dorsal dot (MBGBI Vol 10). Larva feeds on Butterbur, over-wintering as an egg.

VC11 South Hampshire

VC12 North Hampshire