2021 Annual Report for: Erebidae / Arctiinae

For species seen in 2021 that had less than or equal to 100 records, full details are included; for more common species, the earliest, latest and highest count by vice-county are shown. The narrative for each species is taken from the main Hantsmoths website, and it is possible that some information on abundance and occurrence can get out of date, as it is impossible to keep up with all changes; however it should give a good introduction to each species. The tables in each species account summarise the previous status, and that for the current year.

For the maps, all records prior to 2021 are shown by a blue dot (the larger the dot, the more recent), with the current year's records shown in red. As previous records are superimposed on any report for 2021, new sites have greater emphasis (i.e. will show as 'more red').

In the species accounts, an asterisk next to a location indicates a new 10km square record; earliest ever dates are highlighted in orange, and latest ever in red. Initials in the species accounts refer to the recorders listed here. Please get in touch if you identify any omissions or errors, in particular if you have records that have yet to be submitted. Details of how to submit records can be found here.

72.019 [B&F: 2061] Buff Ermine Spilosoma lutea (Hufnagel, 1766) - Common

Common in a wide range of habitats, including gardens, hedgerows, parkland and woodland throughout England and southern Scotland, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 34-42 mm. The females much darker than the males. Larva feeds on Stinging Nettle, Honeysuckle, Hop and Wild Plum, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101450368519512020
11132463025919492020
1239031166819512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
101282688
113566129
121482567

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Bonchurch, 13 May, 1 (JHa) Latest: Freshwater, 03 Sep, 1 (DCoo) Max count: Shanklin, 22 Jul, 8 (IOut)

VC11: Earliest: Winchester, 14 May, 1 (THW) Latest: Southampton, 12 Oct, 1 (MGP) Max count: Furzehill, NF, 23 Jul, 9 (SLoa)

VC12: Earliest: Harewood Forest, 01 Jun, 1 (GCE) Latest: Little Somborne, 13 Aug, 1 (GCE) Max count: Cholderton, 02 Jul, 7 (TJN, LFom, HEdm)

72.020 [B&F: 2060] White Ermine Spilosoma lubricipeda (Linnaeus, 1758) - Common

Common in gardens, hedgerows, grassland, heathland, moorland and woodland throughout the British Isles, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 34-48 mm. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, especially Stinging Nettle and several species of dock, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10842202119812020
1173371534819472020
122418770219512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1051636
112163237
12881668

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Bonchurch, 18 May, 1 (JHa) Latest: Cowes, 21 Jul, 1 (DNor) Max count: Totland, 25 Jun, 6 (RTer)

VC11: Earliest: Ashley, 27 Apr, 1 (GCE) Latest: Milford on Sea, 27 Aug, 1 (MMcM) Max count: Wickham, 11 Jun, 7 (JRDS)

VC12: Earliest: Teg Down, Winchester, 26 May, 1 (CKni) Latest: Hawley Meadows, 19 Aug, 1 (MBen) Max count: Morn Hill, Winchester, 12 Jun, 8 (CBey, DAS, PDF et al)

72.022 [B&F: 2063] Muslin Moth Diaphora mendica (Clerck, 1759) - Common

Common in open woodland, gardens and hedgerows, and on downland and sand-dunes throughout much of England, Wales and southern Scotland. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread, but has declined recently. Wingspan male 30-35 mm, female 36-43 mm. The males are sometimes common at light, the females fly infrequently but are sometimes seen during the day. Male unmistakable, female is similar to White Ermine and Water Ermine, but smaller. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Dock and Dead-nettle, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1038067219432020
113335501219482020
121094181219512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10581226
1168824
1226273

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Bonchurch, 10 Apr, 1 (JHa) Latest: Bonchurch, 10 Jun, 1 (JHa) Max count: Bonchurch, 28 Apr, 6 (JHa)

VC11: Earliest: Broughton, 30 Mar, 1 (GCE) Latest: Botley, 19 Sep, 0 (SLB) Max count: Lee, nr Nursling, 30 May, 4 (CTha)

VC12: Earliest: Whitehill, 20 Apr, 1 (ASto) Latest: Beech, 10 Jun, 1 (NDP) Max count: Crawley, 28 May, 3 (GCE)

72.023 [B&F: 2059] Clouded Buff Diacrisia sannio (Linnaeus, 1758) - Local

Local on heathland, moorland and calcareous grassland throughout the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight once locally frequent on the dry chalk, nowadays it is found only on the damp heaths of the New Forest and the north-east, with occasional wanderers appearing elsewhere. Wingspan male 40-50 mm, female 35-45 mm. Unmistakable. Larva polyphagous on various heathland plants, including Heather, Bell Heather, Sheep's Sorrel, Devil's-bit Scabious, Common Dog-violet, Ribwort Plantain and Greater Plantain.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1025718562010
1132932118002020
1212414419512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
119103
12342

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC11: Ibsley Common, NF, one, transect, 30 Jun (BWT); one, transect, 01 Jul (JHun); Rockford Common, NF, one, transect, 28 Jun (BWT); Brogenslade Bottom, NF, one, field observation, 25 Jun (SLoa); Pitts Wood, NF, one, transect, 01 Jul (StKin); Hinchelsea Moor, NF, one, 22 Jun (PBar); Broomy Plain, NF, one, transect, 01 Jul (NTO); Ances Wood, New Forest, three, field observation, 02 Jul (JNew); Otterwood, NF, present, field observation, 14 Jun (KPhi);

VC12: Broxhead Common, one, transect, 23 Jun; one, transect, 01 Jul (AGre); Yateley Common, two, field observation, 01 Jul (BDal)

72.024 [B&F: 2064] Ruby Tiger Phragmatobia fuliginosa (Linnaeus, 1758) - Common

Common on downland, heathland and sand-dunes, and in woodland clearings, farmland and gardens throughout England. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 28-38 mm. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Common Ragwort, Ribwort Plantain and Greater Plantain.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1047993519512020
1155661155519512020
122463770319492020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10551269
1127092855
121141968

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Rookley, 14 Jun, 1 (JRB) Latest: Alverstone, 14 Sep, 1 (DFai) Max count: Plaish, Carisbrooke, 22 Jul, 9 (KRyl)

VC11: Earliest: Lower Derby, 19 Mar, 1 (GDea) Latest: Clanfield, 15 Dec, 1 (MBer) Max count: Botley, 27 Jul, 55 (SLB)

VC12: Earliest: Basingstoke, 14 Jan, 1 (MHak) Latest: Basingstoke, 29 Dec, 1 (JEH) Max count: Chilbolton, 27 Jul, 8 (GCE)

72.025 [B&F: 2056] Wood Tiger Parasemia plantaginis (Linnaeus, 1758) - Local

Local on heathland and downland throughout much of the British Isles, but has disappeared from many localities, especially in southern England. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight a species that has decreased dramatically through loss of habitat. It is still present on the remaining areas of unspoilt downland. Wingspan 33-42 mm. Sufficiently distinctive not be confused with other more common species of tiger-moth. Larva polyphagous on plants such as Bell Heather, Ribwort Plantain, Greater Plantain, Common Rock-rose, Salad Burnet and Groundsel.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
106816118002019
117434319402019
129319019492020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
11111
12232

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC11: Old Winchester Hill NNR, one, field observation, 13 Jul (DSus);

VC12: Old Burghclere, two, field observation, 06 Jun (GJD); Overton, one, field observation, 02 Jul (B&MElk)

72.026 [B&F: 2057] Garden Tiger Arctia caja (Linnaeus, 1758) - Common

Reasonably common, but has declined drastically in recent years, in gardens, water meadows, marshes, fens, sand-dunes and open woodland throughout the British Isles, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight still widespread, but present only in small numbers. Wingspan 50-78 mm. Variable, but generally unmistakable. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Stinging Nettle, Broad-leaved Dock, Greater Burdock and Lesser Burdock.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1032755419512020
113815912119512020
1250667419482020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1021212
11771016
12661

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Haseley Manor, 13 Jul, 1 (IOut) Latest: Bembridge Lagoons, 16 Aug, 0 (AEmm) Max count: Haseley Manor, 19 Jul, 2 (IOut)

VC11: Earliest: Fordingbridge, 16 Jul, 1 (SCT) Latest: Portsmouth, 03 Sep, 1 (IRT) Max count: Portsmouth, 11 Aug, 6 (IRT)

VC12: Earliest: Chilbolton, 10 Jul, 1 (SLE) Latest: Hammer Vale, 04 Aug, 1 (ASwa) Max count: Chilbolton, 10 Jul, 1 (SLE)

72.027 [B&F: 2058] Cream-spot Tiger Arctia villica (Linnaeus, 1758) - Local

Local on clifftops, undercliffs, saltmarshes and sand-dunes in southern England and South Wales, predominantly coastal. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight more or less confined to the coasts of vice-counties 10 and 11, where it is locally fairly common. Wingspan 50-66 mm. Could be confused with the occasional Scarlet Tiger Callimorpha dominula which has yellow hindwing. Larva feeds on White Dead-nettle, Black Horehound, Common Ragwort and Common Cow-wheat.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1036774818002020
1153191019482020
123019511951

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1039999
1114183

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC10: Freshwater, one, 31 May (DCoo); Freshwater Bay, two, 02 Jun (SDav); Cranmore, one, 29 May (CHic); Mottistone Chalk Pits, one, 22 May (KNow det. JRB); Brighstone Bay, one, to light, 30 May (MCrm); Brighstone Down, two, 09 Jun (IOut); Brighstone Downs, , one, 03 Jun (AMas); Brighstone Down East, one, 09 Jun (IOut); Whitwell, one, field observation, 24 Jun (ASltm); Wheelers Bay, eight, 03 Jun (ABut); Ventnor, one, field observation, 06 Jun (MChi det. JRB); one, 23 May; three, 28 May (MAli); Bonchurch, one, 26 Apr; one, 08 May; four, 10 May; three, 12 May; one, 15 May; four, 17 May; two, 18 May; four, 19 May; one, 22 May; five, 29 May; seven, 31 May; four, 01 Jun; three, 02 Jun; nine, 05 Jun; five, 06 Jun; four, 07 Jun; three, 10 Jun; one, 11 Jun; three, 15 Jun; one, 21 Jun (JHa); Rookley, one, 28 May; five, 02 Jun; one, 18 Jun (JRB); Arreton area, one, 04 Jun (DFai); Haddon's Pits, , present, 08 Jun (KVin); Shanklin Upper Chine, one, 03 Jun (IOut);

VC11: Portsmouth, two, 28 May; one, 31 May; three, 02 Jun; one, 06 Jun; one, 08 Jun; one, 12 Jun; one, 14 Jun; three, 15 Jun; one, 16 Jun (IRT); Northney, one, field observation, 12 Jun; one, 13 Jun (IMea); North Hayling., larva, one, on ground, a larva crawling at the edge of the front lawn, 01 Apr (GRE); Merritown Heath, present, 10 Jun (DFoo); Barton Common, one, transect, 17 Jun (TBum)

72.029 [B&F: 2068] Scarlet Tiger Callimorpha dominula (Linnaeus, 1758) - Local

Local on river-banks, and in fens, marshes and damp meadows throughout south-western England and south Wales. In Hampshire still common in the Avon, Test, Itchen and Wey valleys and occasionally wanders elsewhere. Not recorded from the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 52-58 mm. Day-flying, but fairly frequent at over-night light traps. Usually, the bright red underwing precludes confusion with other tiger moths, however it occasionally has a yellow underwing, when it superficially resembles Cream-spot Tiger Arctia villica, but Cream-spot Tiger has a large white basal patch and is a more slender moth. Larva feeds on Common Comfrey, Hemp-agrimony, Stinging Nettle, Bramble, Honeysuckle and Meadowsweet.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1152790818002020
12817196019402020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1126303
128417639

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC11: Earliest: West Wood, 23 Jun, 1 (A&LB) Latest: Totton, 21 Jul, 1 (LHan) Max count: Nursling Substation, 26 Jun, 3 (JClx)

VC12: Earliest: Overton, 21 Mar, 1 (PEH) Latest: Overton, 12 Oct, 1 (PEH) Max count: Overton, 02 Apr, 39 (PEH)

72.030 [B&F: 2067] Jersey Tiger Euplagia quadripunctaria (Poda, 1761) - Nb

Locally common on sea cliffs, undercliffs, gardens, rough ground and hedgerows, mainly in south-western England. Predominantly coastal, it is probably most common in Devon but the 21st century has seen an increase in range along the coast to Dorset and the Isle of Wight, and increasingly on mainland Hampshire, and it continues to extend its range eastwards. There are also populations in London and Somerset, both of which may be as the result of accidental (or in the case of Somerset, deliberate) introduction.

First recorded on the Isle of Wight as a migrant in 1935, there were no further sightings in our area until one in Fareham, Hampshire on 12 August 1987. Low level residence was first suspected in the early 1990s, since when it has increased year on year on the island and is now locally frequent there (light traps in Ventnor have turned up 50-100 individuals on one night). With this, it was to be expected that frequency of sightings would increase on the mainland across the Solent, and it appears now to be resident (supplemented by dispersal from Wight) across the south Hampshire coast. It is making inroads inland and is occasionally reported in North Hampshire.

Wingspan 52-65 mm. Unmistakable. Larva feeds on herbaceous plants such as Stinging Nettle, Hemp-agrimony, White Dead-nettle, Ribwort Plantain, Greater Plantain, Ground-ivy and Bramble.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10777312618772020
1163010188202020
12131420112020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10120551124
1129060447
12761

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: East Cowes, 17 May, 0 (iWatch) Latest: Alverstone, 08 Sep, 2 (DFai) Max count: Newport, 26 Aug, 124 (DPl)

VC11: Earliest: Rat Island (Burrow Island), Portsmouth Harbour, 31 May, 2 (KIls) Latest: Sway, 12 Sep, 0 (DMui) Max count: Browndown Coastal Ranges, 27 Aug, 47 (MLO, ADT, DWal, KJW)

VC12: Earliest: Little Somborne, 13 Aug, 1 (GCE) Latest: Alton, 04 Sep, 1 (CJP) Max count: Little Somborne, 13 Aug, 1 (GCE)

72.031 [B&F: 2069] Cinnabar Tyria jacobaeae (Linnaeus, 1758) - Common

Common on grassland, sand-dunes, heathland, gardens and woodland rides throughout much of England and Wales, rare in Scotland, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread and usually common, especially in the larval stage, on dunes, downs, open woodland and other places where the foodplant grows. Wingspan 35-45 mm. Unmistakable. Larva feeds on Common Ragwort, occasionally also on Oxford Ragwort, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10589186119512020
1147271080119452020
122450962819512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
106513950
1120330634
1211622427

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Alverstone, 11 May, 1 (DFai) Latest: Bembridge Down, 18 Aug, 0 (AEmm) Max count: Westridge, 30 Jul, 50 (IOut)

VC11: Earliest: Broughton, 27 May, 1 (GCE) Latest: Gosport, 21 Aug, 0 (ACBar) Max count: Chartwell Green, Southampton, 27 Jul, 34 (NBur)

VC12: Earliest: Whitchurch, 26 May, 1 (SBro) Latest: Ropley, 27 Aug, 5 (TJN, LFom) Max count: Minley Wood, 10 Jul, 27 (BDal)

72.035 [B&F: 2037] Rosy Footman Miltochrista miniata (Forster, 1771) - Local

Local in broad-leaved woodland, heathland and mature hedgerows throughout southern England, but rare elsewhere; widely distributed and relatively common throughout Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 25-33 mm. A beautiful and unmistakable moth. Larva feeds on various lichens.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101068521919512020
1168651815819492020
121716590319512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1010540340
11448146440
1217951529

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Freshwater, 30 Jun, 1 (PBar) Latest: Shanklin, 16 Sep, 1 (IOut) Max count: Parkhurst Forest, 03 Aug, 40 (IOut)

VC11: Earliest: Romsey, 30 Jun, 1 (MBak) Latest: West Wellow, 26 Sep, 1 (CNB) Max count: Romsey, 22 Jul, 40 (NRJ)

VC12: Earliest: Pamber Forest, 24 Jun, 1 (GJD) Latest: Cholderton, 10 Sep, 1 (TJN) Max count: Goodworth Clatford, 09 Aug, 29 (JMor)

72.036 [B&F: 2038] Muslin Footman Nudaria mundana (Linnaeus, 1761) - Local

Local in dry-stone walls and rocky areas throughout much of the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight very local and uncommon in the area. There are very scattered records from all three vice-counties. Wingspan 19-23 mm. The most likely confusion species is Round-winged Muslin Thumatha senex, which see for differences. Larva feeds on various lichens, often on walls.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
1012322818562020
11231819512020
12303519512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
108164
11111

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC10: Totland, two, 21 Jul (RTer); Haseley Manor, two, 19 Jul; Shanklin, two, 17 Jul; two, 18 Jul; one, 19 Jul; four, 20 Jul; one, 22 Jul (IOut); Alverstone, two, 22 Jul (DFai);

VC11: Stockbridge Down NT, one, 18 Jul (GCE)

72.037 [B&F: 2035] Round-winged Muslin Thumatha senex (Hübner, [1808]) - Local

Local in fens, bogs, moorland, damp grassland and marshes throughout much of England. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight there are scattered colonies in bogs and marshes in all three vice-counties, with occasionally wanderers elsewhere. Wingspan 20-22 mm. The most likely confusion species is Muslin Footman Nudaria mundana, which differs in having two rather poorly-defined zigzag fasciae running across the less-rounded forewing, and fewer spots than Round-winged Muslin. Larva feeds on various lichens and various mosses.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10679919002020
1148962718002020
12343113919402020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1031511
1111112
1211174

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC10: Plaish, Carisbrooke, two, 24 Jul (KRyl); Haseley Manor, two, 13 Jul; 11, 19 Jul (IOut);

VC11: Woodlands, NF, present, 16 Jul (RBW); Romsey, one, 03 Jul; one, 20 Jul (NRJ); Houghton, one, 18 Jul; Stockbridge Down NT, one, 18 Jul (GCE); Allbrook, one, 20 Jul (SIng); Titchfield Haven NNR, two, 25 Jun (RJD, DWal, KJW, RCar, DHun); Botley, one, 16 Jun; one, 01 Jul (SLB); Needs Ore NNR, one, 18 Aug (CNB); one, 19 Aug (PCra);

VC12: Anna Valley, Andover, one, 20 Jul (TJN, LFom); Goodworth Clatford, one, 11 Aug (JMor); Harewood Forest, one, 21 Jul; one, 21 Jul; Bullington, two, 10 Jun; two, 16 Jul; one, 10 Jun; one, 10 Jun; two, 10 Jun; one, 16 Jul (GCE); Burghclere, four, 17 Jul (PBlk)

72.038 [B&F: 2040] Four-dotted Footman Cybosia mesomella (Linnaeus, 1758) - Local

Local on heathland, moorland, damp grassland, fens and open woodland throughout the British Isles. Widespread and fairly common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 29-34 mm. Unmistakable. Larva feeds on lichens growing on various woody plants, including Heather and Sallow.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
109610819812020
111173146519512020
12743114619512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10111
1129322
1223293

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC11: Fordingbridge, one, 11 Jun; one, 25 Jun (SCT); Furzehill, NF, one, 16 Jun (SLoa det. BDal); Broughton Down, one, 12 Jun (MBot); Marchwood, one, 18 Jun (CTha); Woodlands, NF, present, 14 Jul (RBW); Blackpits Wood, East Tytherley, two, 14 Jul; East Tytherley, one, 14 Jul; two, 14 Jul; two, 12 Jun; one, 14 Jul (GCE); Romsey, one, 18 Jun; one, 22 Jul (NRJ); Kings Somborne, one, 29 Jun; Broughton, one, 13 Jun; one, 13 Jun; one, 13 Jun; one, 13 Jun; one, 13 Jun; Houghton, one, 18 Jul; Stockbridge Down NT, one, 18 Jul; one, 18 Jul; one, 18 Jul; Winter Down Copse, Little Somborne, two, 19 Jul; one, 19 Jul; one, 30 Jun; one, 30 Jun (GCE); Stanbrige Earls, one, 01 Jul (JRM); Titchfield Haven NNR, one, 25 Jun (RJD, DWal, KJW, RCar, DHun);

VC12: Leckford, one, transect, 16 Jun; Little Somborne, one, 12 Jul (GCE); Chilbolton, one, 15 Jul (SLE); Little Somborne, one, 24 Jun; two, 24 Jun; Crawley, three, 17 Jul; Harewood Forest, one, 21 Jul; Crawley, one, 12 Jul; one, 17 Jul; Little Somborne, one, 12 Jul; Bullington, two, 16 Jul (GCE); Ecchinswell, one, 17 Jul (MJN); Cheriton Wood, one, field observation, 30 Jun; one, field observation, 05 Jul (DAS); Pamber Forest, one, 10 Jul; one, 16 Jun; two, 24 Jun; one, 15 Jul; two, 16 Jul (GJD); Whitehill, one, 08 Jul; one, 11 Jul (ASto); Minley Wood, one, field observation, 26 Jul; Yateley Common, one, field observation, 12 Jul (BDal)

72.039 [B&F: 2041] Dotted Footman Pelosia muscerda (Hufnagel, 1766) - Nationally Rare

A rare Red Data Book species, possibly now only breeding in Britain in fens and damp woodland in the Norfolk Broads, but recorded in a number of other locations, where sometimes considered to be a migrant. In Hampshire following a gap of 107 years, 2008 saw two reports in the New Forest, with further scattered reports of presumed migrants from elsewhere in the Forest, and Botley Wood, and the first for the Island in 2018 (and again in 2021). Wingspan 30-34 mm. The most likely confusion species is Small Dotted Footman P. obtusa, which is smaller, has more rounded wings and a very curved median row of black dots from costa to dorsum (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on various lichens.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101120182018
116418882012

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10111
11100

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Totland, one, 24 Jul (RTer);

VC11: Woodlands, NF, present, 24 Jul (RBW)

72.041 [B&F: 2051] Four-spotted Footman Lithosia quadra (Linnaeus, 1758) - Migrant

Local in broad-leaved woodland in southern England and western Wales, sporadically as far north as Ross-shire and the Isle of Man. It is probable that the population is from time to time reinforced by immigration. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight resident at low density in the New Forest and an uncommon, presumed, immigrant elsewhere. The individual pictured here was taken in the Isles of Scilly, where it is much more frequent. Wingspan male 35-40 mm, female 40-55 mm. Although only the female has spots, the large size precludes confusion with other Lithosiinae. The unspotted male is much more common to light then the female. Larva feeds on lichens growing on oak trees.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10909545818562020
11762122319042020
1219643219512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
106022449
116717835
1233483

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Cranmore, 15 Jun, 1 (JMar) Latest: Freshwater, 26 Oct, 1 (DCoo) Max count: Shanklin, 04 Aug, 49 (IOut)

VC11: Earliest: Long Down, Shootash, 26 Jun, 1 (PHog, P&CHop) Latest: Romsey, 13 Oct, 1 (NRJ) Max count: Romsey, 23 Jul, 35 (NRJ)

VC12: Earliest: Basingstoke, 14 Jun, 1 (GAH) Latest: Chilbolton, 06 Oct, 1 (GCE) Max count: Over Wallop, 16 Jul, 3 (CMap)

72.042 [B&F: 2039] Red-necked Footman Atolmis rubricollis (Linnaeus, 1758) - Local

Local in broad-leaved woodland and plantations throughout much of southern England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight has increased from the mid 1980s onwards; after failing to appear in the county between 1971 and 1985, the species is now widespread across much of the county and on the Island. Wingspan 28-36 mm. Unmistakable. Larva feeds on lichens growing on Oak, Birch, Beech, European Larch, Norway Spruce and various trees, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10566318002019
1128138318002020
128010718002020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
10111
118102
12441

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC10: Bonchurch, one, 29 Jun (JHa);

VC11: Broughton Down, one, 12 Jun (MBot); Fareham, one, 01 Jul; two, 21 Jul (IMcP); West Meon, one, 02 Jul; one, 02 Jul (RJD, MLO, ADT, DWal, KJW); Old Winchester Hill, one, 11 Jun (RJD, MLO, DWal, KJW); Hurn, one, 27 Jun; two, 30 Jun (MJef);

VC12: Cheriton Wood, one, field observation, 23 Jun (DAS); Basingstoke, one, 01 Jul (MJW); Ashford Hangers, one, field observation, 10 Jun (ASD); Minley Wood, one, field observation, 04 Jul (BDal)

72.043 [B&F: 2049] Buff Footman Eilema depressa (Esper, 1787) - Local

Local in broad-leaved woodland, mixed woodland, scrubby downland, scrubby heathland and fens throughout much of southern England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread and not uncommon, having increased in range over the last 20 years. Wingspan 28-36 mm. Distinctive once known, the relatively broad, plain wings give the species a characteristic appearance. The most likely confusion species is the pale straw-yellow form (ab. stramineola) of Dingy Footman E. griseola. Larva feeds on lichens growing on various deciduous and coniferous trees, including Oak, Birch, Hawthorn and Yew.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10526160219302020
112238488019512020
121066374619512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
104416714
1110827231
127616814

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Shanklin, 02 Jul, 1 (IOut) Latest: Shanklin, 07 Sep, 1 (IOut) Max count: Alverstone, 21 Jul, 14 (DFai)

VC11: Earliest: West Tytherley, 06 Jun, 1 (CWL) Latest: Botley, 29 Oct, 1 (SLB) Max count: West Walk, 23 Jul, 31 (RJD, MLO, ADT, DWal, KJW)

VC12: Earliest: Basingstoke, 12 Jun, 1 (RHil) Latest: Cholderton, 10 Sep, 2 (TJN) Max count: Goodworth Clatford, 08 Aug, 14 (JMor)

72.044 [B&F: 2044] Dingy Footman Eilema griseola (Hübner, [1803]) - Common

Common in fens, water meadows, damp grassland and rural gardens throughout southern England and Wales, north to Yorkshire. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 32-40 mm. Either plain straw yellow (ab. stramineola) or grey with yellow costal streak, both forms best distinguished from Common Footman E. lurideola and Buff Footman E. depressa by characteristic wing-shape. Larva feeds on various lichens growing on deciduous trees and bushes.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101004402219512020
1166801718819492020
1223761102219512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
108653937
11389125662
12173885104

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Cranmore, 15 Jun, 1 (JMar) Latest: Shanklin, 08 Sep, 2 (IOut) Max count: Shanklin, 04 Aug, 37 (IOut)

VC11: Earliest: Marchwood, 24 Jun, 1 (TDCh) Latest: Crawley, 14 Sep, 1 (GCE) Max count: Wickham, 30 Jul, 62 (JRDS)

VC12: Earliest: Hinton Ampner, 07 Jun, 1 (ASD) Latest: Chilbolton, 16 Sep, 1 (SLE) Max count: Goodworth Clatford, 08 Aug, 104 (JMor)

72.045 [B&F: 2050] Common Footman Eilema lurideola (Zincken, 1817) - Common

Common wherever there are lichens, in gardens, farmland, marshes and woodland throughout England, Wales and southern Scotland. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 31-38 mm. Wing-shape and posture of live specimens is a far more reliable way of separating the various Eilema species than examination of prepared specimens, and familiarity with E. lurideola is the key to the identification of the other Eilema species; the most likely confusion species is Dingy Footman E. griseola, which see. Larva feeds mainly on various lichens, perhaps also on the foliage of various trees and bushes, including Hawthorn and Dogwood.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
101051530419222020
1197104160519482020
1235121843619492020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
101191753145
114634266100
12216152052

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Rookley, 14 Jun, 1 (JRB) Latest: Totland, 29 Aug, 1 (RTer) Max count: Plaish, Carisbrooke, 25 Jul, 145 (KRyl)

VC11: Earliest: Shootash, 11 Jun, 6 (CHop) Latest: Dibden Purlieu, 05 Sep, 1 (RAC) Max count: Burley, NF, 21 Jul, 100 (NDP)

VC12: Earliest: Crawley, 14 Jun, 1 (GCE) Latest: Cholderton, 10 Sep, 3 (TJN) Max count: Burghclere, 17 Jul, 52 (PBlk)

72.046 [B&F: 2047] Scarce Footman Eilema complana (Linnaeus, 1758) - Local

Local in heathland, moorland, woodland, gardens and sand-dunes throughout England and Wales; widespread and common in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 30-36 mm. Has been confused in the past with Common Footman E. lurideola, however wing-shape and posture of live specimens completely different; very similar to Hoary Footman E. caniola, which see. Virtually impossible to separate from Northern Footman E. sericea, now known only from Whixall Moss, Shropshire, and with which it is perhaps best treated as conspecific. Larva feeds on various lichens.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10419133319812020
1150641192419512020
121580386919492020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
104915927
1124655120
1212830824

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Freshwater Bay, 29 Jun, 1 (SDav) Latest: Freshwater Bay, 30 Aug, 1 (SDav) Max count: Totland, 26 Jul, 27 (RTer)

VC11: Earliest: Kings Somborne, 29 Jun, 1 (GCE) Latest: Botley, 21 Aug, 1 (SLB) Max count: Dibden Purlieu, 27 Jul, 20 (RAC)

VC12: Earliest: Crawley, 28 Jun, 1 (GCE) Latest: Alton, 24 Aug, 1 (DBO) Max count: Morn Hill, Winchester, 17 Jul, 24 (CBey, DAS, PDF)

72.047 [B&F: 2045] Hoary Footman Eilema caniola (Hübner, [1808]) - Nb

Nationally scarce (Nb) on sea cliffs and shingle beaches, and inland on quarries, from Kent to Anglesey. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight first recorded on the Island in 1992 and, on the mainland, in 1997, now increasingly seen in the north-east of the county where it is spreading from the east. Wingspan 28-35 mm. Very similar to Scarce Footman E. complana, but hindwing very pale yellowish grey (ochreous yellow in Scarce Footman), a feature which is difficult to see on live specimens. Larva feeds on various lichens, often on rocks.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10222119812020
11394519932020
126113320032020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
106115
1112152
12661

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)

No Larval records to show.

Record Details

VC10: Totland, one, 30 Jul (RTer); Freshwater Bay, five, 15 Jul; one, 18 Sep (SDav); Parkhurst Forest, one, 03 Aug (IOut); Wheelers Bay, two, 18 Jul (ABut); Shanklin, one, 18 Jul (IOut);

VC11: Totton, one, 13 Jul; one, 15 Jul; two, 16 Jul (LHan); Dibden Purlieu, one, 25 Jul; one, 14 Aug (RAC); Allbrook, one, 18 Jul (SIng); Winchester, two, 16 Jul (THW); Pennington, one, 14 Jul; one, 15 Jul; two, 21 Jul; one, 24 Jul; one, 27 Jul (RFC);

VC12: Basingstoke, one, 22 Aug; one, 09 Sep (MJW); Blackwater, one, 13 Jul; one, 25 Jul; one, 22 Aug (BDal); Farnborough, one, 22 Aug (KBW)

72.049 [B&F: 2043] Orange Footman Eilema sororcula (Hufnagel, 1766) - Local

Local in deciduous, especially oak and beech, woodland throughout much of southern England, chiefly in the south-west. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight still common in areas of oak woodland, and may even be extending its range. Wingspan 27-30 mm. Could be confused with ab. stramineola of Dingy Footman E. griseola, which is larger, has the costa more strongly arched, and the thorax and abdomen yellow (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on lichens growing on Oak, Beech and Blackthorn, over-wintering as a pupa.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10695228918002020
112951681618002020
121311541019512020

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
104821329
1114142932
127616418

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Summary

VC10: Earliest: Shanklin, 27 May, 3 (IOut) Latest: Shanklin Upper Chine, 18 Jul, 1 (IOut) Max count: Newport, 12 Jun, 29 (SuHug)

VC11: Earliest: Totton, 27 May, 1 (LHan) Latest: West Walk, 23 Jul, 1 (RJD, MLO, ADT, DWal, KJW) Max count: Romsey, 11 Jun, 32 (NRJ)

VC12: Earliest: Chilbolton, 28 May, 1 (GCE) Latest: Ecchinswell, 03 Aug, 2 (MTay, CSul) Max count: Beech, 06 Jun, 18 (NDP)

72.050 [B&F: 2036] Dew Moth Setina irrorella (Linnaeus, 1758) - Nationally Rare

Nationally scarce (Na) on shingle beaches and rough grassland by the sea in southern England, western Wales and Scotland; also, rarely, on calcareous grassland inland in Surrey and the Cotswolds. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight the headquarters of this species in the area are on the cliff-tops at Freshwater on the Island, and there is also a good colony at Hurst Castle on the mainland. Elsewhere, occasional presumed strays have been taken at light. Wingspan 26-32 mm. Unmistakable. Larva feeds on various lichens.

Records prior to 2021

Vice County #Records #Individuals First Record Last Record
10507519002019
11345719732014
121019811981

2021 records

Vice County #Records #Individuals Max Quantity
1033836

Records by year

Records by week (adult)

Records by week (larval)


Record Details

VC10: High Down: Main Bench, 36, field observation, at least this number disturbed from the mainly barer areas between the cliff edge and the fence, many rather worn: four around a female and attempting to mate, 28 Jun (PBar); West High Down, one, field observation, 01 May (C&JPop); Tennyson Down, larva, one, field observation, 29 Jun (PBar)