2023 Annual Report for: Noctuidae / Noctuinae
For species seen in 2023 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is taken from the main Hantsmoths website, and it is possible that some information on abundance and occurrence can get out of date, as it is impossible to keep up with all changes; however it should give a good introduction to each species.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 2023 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 2023, 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.
73.307 [B&F: 2119] Pearly Underwing Peridroma saucia (Hübner, [1808]) - Migrant
Common immigrant from mainland Europe, appearing throughout the British Isles, in some years arriving in sufficient numbers to breed in very small numbers. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight a fairly common migrant throughout, most common near the coast. Wingspan 45-56 mm. Thorax with longitudinal crest, often silvery grey. Larva feeds on Dandelion, Dock and Red Clover, unable to over-winter in significant numbers.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 253 | 638 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 11 | 1099 | 1331 | 1949 | 2022 |
| 12 | 107 | 101 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 28 | 30 | 3 |
| 12 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Marchwood, one, 08 Oct (CTha); Romsey, one, 23 Aug (MJB); Dibden Purlieu, NF, one, 15 Sep; one, 16 Sep; one, 12 Oct; one, 18 Dec (RAC); Swaythling, Southampton, one, 21 Aug; one, 12 Sep (MEdg); Stubbington, one, 08 Sep (DPH); Lee-on-Solent, one, 25 Sep (IHrg); Fareham, one, 10 Sep; one, 12 Sep; one, 16 Sep; one, 07 Oct; one, 25 Oct (MLO); one, 20 Mar; one, 27 Jul (KJW); Portchester, one, 21 Apr (CEH, JGS); Hurn, one, 03 Sep; one, 05 Oct; Hengistbury Head, one, 13 Jun; three, 25 Oct (MJef); Pennington, one, 17 Sep (RFC); Lymington, one, 04 Sep; one, 25 Sep (PRD); Lisle Court, Lymington, one, 10 Sep (AMus, JPMar det. JPM); one, 10 Sep (AMus); Southsea, one, 10 Oct (JGdr);
VC12: Cheriton, one, 11 Sep (DAS); Basingstoke, one, 11 Oct (MJW)
73.313 [B&F: 2081] White-line Dart Euxoa tritici (Linnaeus, 1761) - Common
Common on sand-dunes, sea cliffs, heathland, moorland and downland 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 primarily on the sandy coasts of vice-counties 10 and 11, with a smaller, darker form frequent on the heaths of the New Forest and north-eastern Hampshire; rare elsewhere. Wingspan 28-40 mm. The most likely confusion species are Square-spot Dart E. obelisca and Coast Dart E. cursoria, which see for differences. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Common Mouse-ear, Common Chickweed, Greater Stitchwort and Hedge Bedstraw, over-wintering as an egg or small larva.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 29 | 7 | 1856 | 2011 |
| 11 | 755 | 3809 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 12 | 86 | 81 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 11 | 19 | 6 |
| 12 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Needs Ore NNR, two, 24 Jul (PCra); Hengistbury Head, one, 28 Jun; one, 10 Jul; one, 25 Jul; two, 08 Aug; one, 10 Aug; two, 22 Aug; one, 23 Aug; one, 07 Sep (MJef); Needs Ore NNR, one, 01 Jul; six, 24 Jul (CNB);
VC12: Blackwater, one, 09 Aug (BGD)
73.314 [B&F: 2082] Garden Dart Euxoa nigricans (Linnaeus, 1761) - Common
Local in gardens, allotments and farmland, and on downland and rough ground throughout the British Isles, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight there are still scattered records, but numbers have declined drastically recently, and records will no longer be accepted without convincing evidence. Wingspan 32-40 mm. Some forms can be confused with White-line Dart E. tritici, but that is a neater, more sharply marked insect; the presence of the claviform stigma, as well as the relatively longer and narrower forewing, should preclude confusion with Square-spot Rustic Xestia xanthographa (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Clover, Dock and Plantain, over-wintering as an egg or small larva.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 12 | 3 | 1968 | 1997 |
| 11 | 154 | 134 | 1949 | 2022 |
| 12 | 85 | 57 | 1951 | 2021 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Fareham, one, verified by KJW, 27 Jun (MLO det. KJW)
73.317 [B&F: 2089] Heart & Dart Agrotis exclamationis (Linnaeus, 1758) - Common
Common often abundant, in all types of habitat throughout the British Isles. Widespread and very common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 35-44 mm. The presence of the dark mark on the patagia distinguishes Heart and Dart from the occasional female Heart and Club A. clavis which resembles it (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on herbaceous plants such as Ribwort Plantain and Fat-hen.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 2632 | 29278 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 11 | 25312 | 235595 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 12 | 6956 | 60301 | 1900 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 992 | 6081 | 57 |
| 12 | 277 | 1897 | 58 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 12 May, 1 (SDut) Latest: Eastoke, Hayling Island, 12 Aug, 3 (STho) Max count: Portsmouth, 28 Jun, 57 (IRT)
VC12: Earliest: Nether Wallop, 22 Jun, 1 (GCE) Latest: Farnborough, 03 Jun, 6 (SBly) Max count: Morn Hill, Winchester, 10 Jun, 58 (CRB, DAS, PDF et al)
73.319 [B&F: 2087] Turnip Moth Agrotis segetum ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common
Common in gardens, farmland, parkland, oak woodland and sand-dunes throughout the British Isles. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 32-42 mm. Underwing pearly white with darker veins, suffused grey in dark examples, a feature shared amongst its congeners only by the larger Pearly Underwing Peridroma saucia and Dark Sword-grass A. ipsilon, which see. Larva feeds on roots and lower stems of cabbages and various root crops, causing sufficient damage to be a serious pest in some areas.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 504 | 739 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 11 | 6883 | 9428 | 200 | 2022 |
| 12 | 1642 | 2423 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 266 | 380 | 7 |
| 12 | 98 | 145 | 7 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 07 Jul, 4 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 09 Oct, 1 (JGdr) Max count: Stubbington, 16 Aug, 7 (DPH)
VC12: Earliest: Wherwell, 07 Sep, 1 (GCE) Latest: Farnborough, 10 Oct, 1 (KBW) Max count: Basingstoke, 13 Aug, 7 (MJW)
73.320 [B&F: 2088] Heart & Club Agrotis clavis (Hufnagel, 1766) - Common
Common on chalk downland, dry open areas and gardens, and in coastal sand-dunes throughout much of England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight fairly common, although not as much so as the closely related Heart & Dart, mainly on the coast and on the chalk. Wingspan 35-40 mm. The main confusion species is Heart & Dart A. exclamationis, which has a characteristic dark mark on the patagia, lacking in Heart & Club. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Broad-leaved Dock, Wild Carrot and Fat-hen.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 837 | 3478 | 1981 | 2022 |
| 11 | 7210 | 16737 | 1949 | 2022 |
| 12 | 2612 | 9406 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 422 | 1168 | 21 |
| 12 | 148 | 678 | 20 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Blashford Lakes HIWWT NR, 24 Jun, 2 (PWhtk) Latest: Eastoke, Hayling Island, 29 Jun, 1 (STho) Max count: Lee-on-Solent, 26 Jun, 21 (IHrg)
VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 29 Jul, 1 (TJN) Latest: Farnborough, 12 Jul, 3 (KBW) Max count: Cheriton, 16 Jun, 20 (DAS)
73.323 [B&F: 2093] Sand Dart Agrotis ripae (Hübner, [1823]) - Nationally Scarce
Nationally scarce (Nb) on sandy beaches, on the coasts of England and Wales, east Scotland, Jersey, Alderney and the Isle of Man; it also occurs on the east and south coasts of Ireland. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight common on the dunes of Hayling Island and Hengistbury on the mainland, and at Bembridge and St Helens on the Island. Wingspan 32-42 mm. The most likely confusion species is Coast Dart Euxoa cursoria, which usually emerges several weeks later than Sand Dart, differs in having a longer, narrower forewing, and the space between the reniform stigma and the dorsum is only slightly greater than the depth of the reniform stigma itself, whereas in Sand Dart it is about twice that depth (MBGBI Vol 9). Confusion is also possible with Sandhill Rustic Luperina nickerlii, but that has a chequered fringe on the forewing, a white-edged reniform stigma and clearer, pale, dark-edged cross-lines (MBGBI Vol 10). Larva feeds on herbaceous plants, over-wintering in a cocoon.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 25 | 9 | 1856 | 2019 |
| 11 | 115 | 203 | 1800 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 3 | 3 | 1 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Hengistbury Head, one, 05 Jun (FM-S); one, 26 Jun; one, 03 Jul (MJef)
73.325 [B&F: 2092] Shuttle-shaped Dart Agrotis puta (Hübner, [1803]) - Local
Common often abundant, in gardens, farmland, grassland, heathland and open woodland throughout England and Wales. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 30-32 mm. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Dandelion, Knotgrass, and several species of dock.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 1858 | 5495 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 11 | 27313 | 82916 | 200 | 2022 |
| 12 | 6733 | 23879 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 1136 | 3037 | 40 |
| 12 | 359 | 1088 | 23 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 12 May, 1 (SDut) Latest: Eastoke, Hayling Island, 09 Sep, 2 (STho) Max count: Fareham, 12 Aug, 40 (ADT)
VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 20 May, 1 (TJN) Latest: Farnborough, 07 Sep, 2 (KBW) Max count: Basingstoke, 13 Aug, 23 (MJW)
73.327 [B&F: 2091] Dark Sword-grass Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel, 1766) - Migrant
Common immigrant from mainland Europe, appearing throughout the British Isles, in some years arriving in sufficient numbers to breed in small numbers. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight a common immigrant, which is widely distributed throughout in some years. Wingspan 40-55 mm. Has a distinctive set of arrow-shaped darts, one pointing outwards from the reniform stigma, with two smaller ones facing inwards near the margin. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, but unable to over-winter in significant numbers.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 723 | 1649 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 11 | 3882 | 5261 | 1949 | 2022 |
| 12 | 705 | 841 | 1949 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 87 | 103 | 4 |
| 12 | 33 | 36 | 2 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Hale Purlieu, NF, 21 Jun, 1 (JPuz) Latest: Southsea, 01 Aug, 1 (JGdr) Max count: Needs Ore NNR, 24 Jul, 4 (PCra)
VC12: Earliest: Wherwell, 07 Sep, 1 (GCE) Latest: Fleet Pond, 17 Aug, 1 (MHals) Max count: Wonston, 25 Sep, 2 (GCE)
73.328 [B&F: 2098] Flame Axylia putris (Linnaeus, 1761) - Common
Common on farmland, downland and heathland, and in hedgerows, woodland edges and gardens throughout the British Isles. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 30-38 mm. Larva feeds on a variety of herbaceous plants, including Stinging Nettle, White Dead-nettle, Hedge Bedstraw, Hound's-tongue, over-wintering as a pupa.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 1047 | 4387 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 11 | 7488 | 16747 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 12 | 2895 | 8937 | 1948 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 120 | 160 | 5 |
| 12 | 70 | 126 | 8 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Blashford Lakes HIWWT NR, 21 Jun, 1 (JMed) Latest: Needs Ore NNR, 16 Jun, 3 (CNB) Max count: Burton, nr Christchurch, 27 Jun, 5 (JStw)
VC12: Earliest: Nether Wallop, 22 Jun, 1 (GCE) Latest: Farnborough, 27 Jun, 1 (KBW) Max count: Morn Hill, Winchester, 08 Jul, 8 (CRB, PDF, DAS, LHur)
73.329 [B&F: 2102] Flame Shoulder Ochropleura plecta (Linnaeus, 1761) - Common
Common in a wide variety of habitats, from gardens to wetlands throughout the British Isles. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 28-34 mm. Could be confused with the much rarer Radford's Flame Shoulder O. leucogaster, which see. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Groundsel, Ribwort Plantain, Lady's Bedstraw, Hedge Bedstraw and Heath Bedstraw, over-wintering as a pupa.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 2256 | 7940 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 11 | 22698 | 63640 | 200 | 2022 |
| 12 | 6891 | 24869 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 498 | 783 | 13 |
| 12 | 253 | 522 | 17 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 19 Aug, 1 (SDut) Latest: Eastoke, Hayling Island, 12 Aug, 1 (STho) Max count: Highbridge, Eastleigh, 19 Aug, 13 (SIng, PPir)
VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 20 May, 1 (TJN) Latest: Farnborough, 20 Aug, 1 (KBW) Max count: Vyne Lodge Farm, Cufaude, 15 Aug, 17 (AWan)
73.330 [B&F: 2102a] Radford's Flame Shoulder Ochropleura leucogaster (Freyer, [1831]) - Vagrant/Accidental
Rare immigrant from southern Europe, appearing in southern England. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight first recorded at Lepe on the mainland in October 2006 and at Ventnor on the Island in September 2008. From 2015 it has been reported annually, particularly on the island, and 2021 saw a record 42 individuals.
Wingspan 34-37 mm. Resembles Flame Shoulder O. plecta but the forewings are proportionately longer and paler than in O. plecta with an indistinct line of subterminal spots. O. leucogaster has smaller orbicular and reniform stigmata, straighter and more compact 'flame shoulder' running along the upper edge of the forewing to just beyond the reniform stigma, much purer white and larger hindwings with a whitish fringe. The deeply coloured maroon metathorax contrasts sharply with the silky white hairs which cover the anterior abdominal segments and contrast strongly with the dark red thoracic hairs. The abdomen itself is very pale brown, unlike the darker earth-brown colour of O. plecta (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on Common Bird's-foot Trefoil, no evidence of breeding in the UK.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 81 | 122 | 2008 | 2022 |
| 11 | 19 | 16 | 2006 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 9 | 14 | 3 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Hengistbury Head, one, 03 Oct; one, 09 Oct; one, 30 Oct (MJef); Pennington, one, 25 Sep (RFC); Lymington, one, 18 Sep (ASH); three, 24 Sep; one, 25 Sep; three, 26 Sep; two, 09 Oct (PRD)
73.332 [B&F: 2122] Purple Clay Diarsia brunnea ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common
Common in broad-leaved woodland and wooded heathland throughout much of the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight much less common than formerly; in the summer of 1892, for instance, at Brockenhurst it was stated to be a continual pest at sugar. It occurs in deciduous woodland, and nowadays it is usually recorded as single specimens. Wingspan 36-45 mm. Distinguished from female Barred Chestnut D. dahlii by the darker wavy band between the postmedian and subterminal lines, the absence of the pale subterminal line which is characteristic of that species, and the blacker quadrate mark between the reniform and orbicular stigmata. Pale individuals could be mistaken for northern Ingrailed Clay D. mendica, but these are often more extensively orange-tinted and marbled, and slightly smaller (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on Foxglove, Bilberry, Heather, Sallow, Bramble, Silver Birch and Downy Birch.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 73 | 93 | 1892 | 2022 |
| 11 | 954 | 1076 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 12 | 410 | 475 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 8 | 10 | 3 |
| 12 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Marchwood, one, 05 Jul (CTha); Romsey, one, 28 Jun; one, 06 Jul (NRJ); Peartree Green LNR, Southampton, one, 29 Jun (MGP); Wickham, three, 23 Jun (F.M.G. det. KJW); one, 02 Jul (JRDS); Hengistbury Head, one, 27 Jun (MJef); Needs Ore NNR, one, 02 Jul (PCra);
VC12: Ecchinswell, one, 24 Jun (MJN)
73.333 [B&F: 2120] Ingrailed Clay Diarsia mendica (Fabricius, 1775) - Local
Common in woodland, gardens and heathland throughout the British Isles. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 28-36 mm. Very variable, and can be confused with a number of other species, but general pattern sufficiently distinct to enable identification in most cases; a useful field mark, sometimes absent, is the small black dot between the orbicular stigma and dorsum, a feature shared by the superficially similar Small Square-spot D. rubi. Larva feeds on Primrose, Hawthorn, Hazel, Blackthorn and other woody plants.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 760 | 2135 | 1981 | 2022 |
| 11 | 3196 | 6618 | 1948 | 2022 |
| 12 | 1613 | 3511 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 87 | 200 | 12 |
| 12 | 34 | 77 | 6 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 19 Aug, 1 (SDut) Latest: Lymington, NF, 28 Jun, 3 (JWar) Max count: Wickham, 13 Jun, 12 (JRDS)
VC12: Earliest: Nether Wallop, 22 Jun, 2 (GCE) Latest: Hammer Vale, Woolmer, 17 Jun, 1 (ASwa) Max count: Wonston, 16 Jun, 6 (GCE)
73.334 [B&F: 2123] Small Square-spot Diarsia rubi (Vieweg, 1790) - Common
Common in damp woodland and grassland, gardens and rough meadows 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 30-38 mm. A useful field mark is the very small black dot between the orbicular stigma and dorsum, but there is no reliable way to distinguish this species from Fen Square-spot D. florida, and the two taxa may best be considered conspecific. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including Dandelion and Dock.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 713 | 2428 | 1959 | 2022 |
| 11 | 7116 | 18687 | 1947 | 2022 |
| 12 | 2459 | 9455 | 1950 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 180 | 292 | 15 |
| 12 | 137 | 358 | 31 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Blashford Lakes HIWWT NR, 07 Jun, 1 (JMed) Latest: Browndown, 01 Sep, 1 (F.M.G.) Max count: Needs Ore NNR, 10 Jun, 15 (CNB)
VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 04 Sep, 0 (TJN) Latest: Fleet Pond, 16 Sep, 2 (MHals) Max count: North Waltham, 08 Jun, 31 (AJon)
73.336 [B&F: 2139] Red Chestnut Cerastis rubricosa ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common
Common in broad-leaved woodland, scrub, gardens and moorland throughout the British Isles. Widespread and still reasonably common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 32-38 mm. Straight costa and spring emergence eliminates all but White-marked C. leucographa, which differs most obviously in pale orbicular and reniform stigmata. Larva feeds on various herbaceous and woody plants, over-wintering as a pupa.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 81 | 80 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 11 | 1365 | 2564 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 12 | 239 | 305 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 31 | 92 | 11 |
| 12 | 5 | 6 | 2 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Brockwood, one, 26 Apr (SDut); Hale Purlieu, NF, present, 10 May; one, 09 May (JPuz); Chandler's Ford, one, 16 Apr (KArb); Lovedean, one, 16 Apr (ARJa); Hengistbury Head, two, 15 Mar (RPH); 11, 17 Mar; seven, 18 Mar (PWet); three, 19 Mar (BKin); one, 23 Mar (RPH); one, 27 Mar (MoTay); two, 28 Mar (BKin); five, 31 Mar (MoTay); six, 01 Apr; three, 02 Apr; one, 03 Apr (BKin); one, 07 Apr; five, 08 Apr (FM-S); 10, 14 Apr (PWet); five, 16 Apr (HengistH); three, 17 Apr (RPH); three, 18 Apr; one, 19 Apr; one, 20 Apr (MoTay); five, 21 Apr (RPH); two, 23 Apr (BKin); two, 24 Apr (HengistH); four, 25 Apr (BKin); three, 26 Apr (RPH); one, 01 May (MoTay); Sway, NF, present, 15 Apr (DMui);
VC12: Hammer Vale, Woolmer, one, 18 Apr; one, 22 Apr; one, 27 Apr (ASwa); Fleet Pond, one, 26 Apr; two, 09 Apr (MHals)
73.338 [B&F: 2118] True Lover's Knot Lycophotia porphyrea ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common
Common on heathland, moorland and in gardens where heather is grown throughout the British Isles; very common on the heaths of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and increasingly recorded from gardens containing heather. Wingspan 26-34 mm. Unmistakable. Larva feeds on Heather and Bell Heather.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 277 | 600 | 1900 | 2022 |
| 11 | 4063 | 15166 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 12 | 784 | 3545 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 49 | 55 | 7 |
| 12 | 32 | 97 | 27 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Brockwood, one, 10 Jul; one, 11 Aug; one, 19 Aug; seven, 02 Sep (SDut); Blashford Lakes HIWWT NR, one, 19 Aug (PWhtk); Ogden's Purlieu, NF, present, frequent, 29 Jun; present, several, 17 Jun (AMD); Hale Purlieu, NF, present, 11 Jun; one, 10 Jun; one, 16 Jun; one, 10 Aug (JPuz); Pig Bush, NF, four, 06 Jul (NRJ); Marchwood, one, 07 Jul; one, 26 Jul (TDCh); Beaulieu Heath, NF, present, field observation, 20 Jun (CBel); Dibden Purlieu, NF, one, 17 Jun; one, 19 Jun; one, 24 Jun; one, 28 Jun; one, 09 Jul; one, 20 Jul; one, 27 Jul; one, 28 Jul; one, 16 Aug; one, 17 Aug; one, 23 Aug (RAC); Winchester, one, 14 Jul (THW); Botley, one, 07 Jul (SLB); Wickham, one, 12 Jun; one, 13 Jun; one, 14 Jun; one, 21 Jun; two, 22 Jun; one, 26 Jun; one, 27 Jun; one, 09 Jul (JRDS); Bournemouth, one, 07 Jul (WSoa, SMorr); Hurn, one, 15 Jun; one, 11 Jul; one, 18 Aug (MJef); Sopley Common, present, 28 Jun (RFox); Burton, nr Christchurch, one, 16 Jul (JStw); Hengistbury Head, one, 07 Jul; one, 27 Jun (MJef); Sway, one, 11 Jun; one, 18 Jun; two, 28 Jun; one, 07 Jul; one, 17 Aug (SKee);
VC12: Grayshott, one, 06 Aug (THard); Pamber Heath, two, 10 Jun; one, 07 Jul (WLan); Lord's Wood, Pamber Forest, five, 10 Jun (MBot); three, 07 Jul; Silchester Common, four, 10 Jun; seven, 07 Jul (WLan); Pamber Forest, one, 18 Jul; one, 25 Jul (GJD); Empshott, one, 10 Aug (CJP); Whitehill, one, 17 Jun; one, 01 Jul; one, 07 Jul; three, 23 Jul; two, 27 Jul; one, 29 Jul; two, 11 Aug; four, 17 Aug; three, 21 Aug; one, 23 Aug (ASto); Ludshott Common, 27, 11 Jul (KBW, HthRT det. KBW); three, 02 Aug (NDP, KBW det. KBW); Hammer Vale, Woolmer, one, 23 Jul; one, 27 Jul (ASwa); Fleet Pond, one, 07 Jul; four, 10 Aug; three, 22 Aug; one, 10 Jun; four, netted, 27 Jun; five, 03 Aug; one, 23 Aug (MHals)
73.342 [B&F: 2107] Large Yellow Underwing Noctua pronuba (Linnaeus, 1758) - Common
Common often abundant, in a wide range of habitats, including grassland, gardens, woodland and moorland throughout the British Isles. Widespread and extremely common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 50-60 mm. Although variable, with a number of distinct forms, Large Yellow Underwing is usually unmistakable, although a pitfall for the unwary is the assignment of occasional small specimens to the extremely rare and declining Lunar Yellow Underwing N. orbona — both share a small black apical streak, but Large Yellow Underwing lacks the diagnostic black discal spot in the hindwing, which can be seen by gently lifting up the forewing with forceps. Larva feeds various grasses and herbaceous plants.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 3732 | 32592 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 11 | 37958 | 277256 | 200 | 2022 |
| 12 | 11032 | 125133 | 1948 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 1561 | 9340 | 131 |
| 12 | 732 | 10213 | 180 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 05 Aug, 2 (SDut) Latest: Eastoke, Hayling Island, 09 Sep, 3 (STho) Max count: Ashley, 10 Sep, 131 (GCE)
VC12: Earliest: Overton, 23 Jul, 1 (PEH) Latest: Yateley, 04 Feb, 1 (PTho) Max count: Upper Farringdon, 10 Sep, 180 (CJP)
73.343 [B&F: 2110] Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing Noctua fimbriata (Schreber, 1759) - Common
Common in broad-leaved woodland, parkland, heathland and gardens throughout the British Isles. Widespread and fairly common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 50-58 mm. Variable, but unmistakable. Larva feeds on various deciduous trees, including Birch, Sallow and Sycamore.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 717 | 1297 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 11 | 8107 | 12584 | 1948 | 2022 |
| 12 | 2589 | 4813 | 1948 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 388 | 604 | 15 |
| 12 | 218 | 371 | 15 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 10 Jul, 1 (SDut) Latest: Eastoke, Hayling Island, 09 Sep, 1 (STho) Max count: Needs Ore NNR, 09 Aug, 12 (CNB)
VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 04 Sep, 5 (TJN) Latest: Yateley, 28 Jul, 0 (CWil) Max count: Magdalen Hill Down NNR, 07 Jul, 15 (SIng, NRJ, PPea)
73.344 [B&F: 2108] Lunar Yellow Underwing Noctua orbona (Hufnagel, 1766) - Nationally Scarce
Nationally scarce (Nb) in dry sandy areas, heaths and open woodland, discontinuously in parts of Britain, greatly declined, a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In Hampshire there are strong colonies in the Test valley, at Porton Down and Cholderton, both on the Wiltshire/Hampshire border, and the moth is recorded occasionally elsewhere, but often erroneously. There have been no Isle of Wight reports since 1894. Wingspan 38-45 mm. Distinguished from Lesser Yellow Underwing N. comes by its narrower forewing and straighter costa, and by the presence of a black mark towards the apex. Distinguished from small examples of Large Yellow Underwing N. pronuba by the presence of a curved discal spot on the hindwing which gives this species its vernacular name.
Please note that no records of this species from new sites outside of established colonies at Cholderton and Porton Down will be accepted without photographic evidence of the hindwing
Larva feeds on various grasses and herbaceous plants, including Sheep's-fescue, Wavy Hair-grass, Cock's-foot, Common Couch, Reed Canary-grass, Meadow Buttercup, Creeping Cinquefoil, Cowslip and Chickweed.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 7 | 0 | 1800 | 1894 |
| 11 | 43 | 29 | 1800 | 2021 |
| 12 | 49 | 81 | 1800 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 12 | 2 | 3 | 2 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: East Tytherley, one, 27 Aug (GCE);
VC12: Cholderton, two, 04 Sep (TJN); Barton Stacey, one, 16 Sep (GCE)
73.345 [B&F: 2109] Lesser Yellow Underwing Noctua comes Hübner, [1813] - Common
Common in a wide range of habitats, including gardens, downland, heathland, woodland and moorland throughout the British Isles. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 38-48 mm. Could be confused with the much rarer Lunar Yellow Underwing N. orbona, which see. Larva feeds on Stinging Nettle, Broad-leaved Dock and Foxglove.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 1195 | 2746 | 1957 | 2022 |
| 11 | 16966 | 48655 | 200 | 2022 |
| 12 | 3939 | 11920 | 1949 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 660 | 1514 | 15 |
| 12 | 244 | 589 | 21 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 19 Aug, 2 (SDut) Latest: Eastoke, Hayling Island, 09 Sep, 1 (STho) Max count: Romsey, 23 Sep, 15 (MJB)
VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 04 Sep, 1 (TJN) Latest: Shepherd Meadows, Blackwater, 25 Mar, 1 (BGD) Max count: Anna Valley, Andover, 16 Sep, 21 (TJN)
73.346 [B&F: 2112] Least Yellow Underwing Noctua interjecta Hübner, [1803] - Common
Common in hedgerows, gardens, fens, sand-dunes and other open areas throughout England and Wales. Widespread and fairly common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 31-36 mm. The least frequent of the five common Noctua species. Larva feeds on various grasses, and herbaceous plants such as Meadowsweet, Common Mallow and Hawthorn.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 138 | 166 | 1973 | 2022 |
| 11 | 2049 | 2694 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 12 | 644 | 906 | 1900 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 42 | 52 | 4 |
| 12 | 25 | 33 | 6 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Brockwood, one, 19 Aug (SDut); Blashford Lakes HIWWT NR, two, 12 Aug; one, 26 Aug (PWhtk); Totton, one, 03 Aug (CNB); North Baddesley, one, 05 Aug (RWPas); Woodley, one, 20 Aug; one, 28 Aug; two, 31 Aug; one, 04 Sep (NBin); Romsey, one, 11 Aug (MJB); Needs Ore NNR, two, 24 Jul (PCra); Blackfield, one, 27 Aug (SJJ); Swaythling, Southampton, one, 19 Aug (MEdg); Itchen Valley CP, one, 29 Jul (CTha); Allbrook, one, 07 Aug; one, 10 Aug; one, 17 Aug (SIng); Winchester, one, 21 Jul (THW); Brownwich cliffs, one, 07 Jul; one, 15 Sep; Brownwich Cliffs, Titchfield, one, 07 Jul; one, 14 Sep; Botley Wood, one, 28 Jul (F.M.G.); Fareham, one, 19 Aug (MLO); one, 10 Aug (KJW); Botley, one, 17 Aug; one, 03 Sep; one, 24 Aug (SLB); Horsea Island, one, 04 Aug (F.M.G.); Portsmouth, one, 08 Aug (IRT); Waterlooville, one, 31 Jul; one, 09 Aug (DWhe); Lovedean, one, 25 Jul; one, 12 Aug (ARJa); Horndean, one, 12 Aug (PHog); Muscliffe, one, 22 Aug (KingB); Hengistbury Head, three, 13 Jul; two, 07 Jul (MJef); Sway, one, 29 Jul (SKee); Needs Ore NNR, four, 24 Jul; two, 09 Aug (CNB); one, 24 Jul (PCra);
VC12: Wherwell, one, 18 Jul; Chilbolton, one, 03 Aug; one, 14 Aug; Newton Stacey, one, 16 Aug; Littleton, two, 10 Aug; one, 10 Aug (GCE); Forest Edge, Andover Down, one, 06 Aug (TJN); Longparish, one, 11 Aug; Barton Stacey, one, 08 Aug; Cole Henley, one, 24 Aug (GCE); Magdalen Hill Down NR, one, 07 Aug (AMD); Cheriton, one, 09 Aug (DAS); Overton, one, 10 Aug; one, 16 Sep (ACr); North Waltham, one, 11 Aug (AJon); Basingstoke, one, 19 Jul; Sherborne St John, one, 16 Aug (MJW); Rushfield Road, Liss, one, 29 Jul (KBW); Noar Hill HIWWT NR, Selborne, one, 11 Aug (AMD, FHay det. AMD); Whitehill, one, 08 Sep (ASto); Bentley Station Meadow, one, 08 Aug (NDP, KBW det. KBW); Fleet Pond, one, 07 Aug; six, 10 Aug; three, 17 Aug (MHals); Blackwater, one, 09 Aug (BGD)
73.347 [B&F: 2110a] Langmaid's Yellow Underwing Noctua janthina [Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775 - Recent colonist
An immigrant from mainland Europe, appearing in southern England, and now resident in small numbers along the south coast. First recorded in Britain by John Langmaid at Southsea, Hampshire, on 9 July 2001. Steadily increasing in frequency throughout the first two decades of the 21st century, it is now accepted as likely to be a low-density breeding species in parts of Hampshire and Isle of Wight. Wingspan 34-40 mm. Very similar to Lesser Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing N. janthe, from which separable in some cases only by dissection of genitalia. Set specimens of N. janthina are separable by black outer border of hindwing, which on N. janthe either stops before the costa or extends diffusely along it, while on N. janthina, it is generally broader, and extends along costa without a gap, so the overall effect is of a black hindwing with a yellow spot. On underside of forewing of N. janthe, the distal edge of black area is usually distinctly toothed. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants. Some authorities dispute whether janthina is a separate species, as there is evidence of hybridisation on the continent.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 73 | 101 | 2006 | 2022 |
| 11 | 362 | 489 | 2001 | 2022 |
| 12 | 24 | 29 | 2019 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 45 | 59 | 5 |
| 12 | 6 | 24 | 10 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Blashford Lakes HIWWT NR*, two, 10 Aug; one, 12 Aug; four, 19 Aug; two, 23 Aug (PWhtk); Romsey, one, 08 Jul (KPea); one, 09 Jul; one, 13 Jul; one, 16 Jul; one, 20 Jul; two, 23 Jul; one, 29 Jul (MJB); Funtley, one, 29 Jun (TDC); Fareham, one, 11 Jul (ADT); one, 22 Jun (MLO); one, 08 Jul; one, 24 Jul; one, 28 Jul; one, 30 Jul (KJW); Botley, one, 04 Aug (SLB); Portchester, one, 09 Aug (DH-J); Portsmouth, one, 21 Jun; one, 23 Jun; one, 28 Jun; one, 02 Aug (IRT); Waterlooville, one, 18 Jul; one, 20 Jul; one, hindwing and underside of forewing checked for ID. To wine rope. , 23 Jul; one, 31 Jul; five, 03 Aug; four, 07 Aug (DWhe); Lovedean, one, 14 Aug (ARJa); Havant, one, 24 Jun (EJac); Hurn, one, 22 Jul; one, 28 Jul; Hengistbury Head, one, 18 Jul (MJef); Burton, nr Christchurch, one, 07 Jul; one, 25 Jul (JStw); Hengistbury Head, two, 07 Jul (MJef); Bransgore, one, 25 Jun (SPMC); Pennington, one, 04 Aug; one, 11 Aug; one, 17 Aug (RFC); Southsea, one, 14 Jul; one, 30 Jul; one, 28 Aug (JGdr);
VC12: Tidgrove Warren, nr Overton*, one, 07 Jul (MJW, ACB); Pamber Forest, 10, 10 Aug; four, 21 Aug; six, 04 Sep; two, 06 Sep (GJD); Whitehill, one, 07 Jul (ASto)
73.348 [B&F: 2111] Lesser Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing Noctua janthe (Borkhausen, 1792) - Common
Common in a wide range of habitats, including woodland, hedgerows, gardens, heathland and moorland throughout the British Isles. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 34-44 mm. Could be confused with the much rarer Langmaid's Yellow Underwing N. janthina, which see. Larva feeds on various herbaceous plants, including White Dead-nettle, Broad-leaved Dock and Scentless Mayweed.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 1409 | 8949 | 1977 | 2022 |
| 11 | 13134 | 53125 | 200 | 2022 |
| 12 | 3890 | 22473 | 1950 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 623 | 2569 | 61 |
| 12 | 291 | 1275 | 52 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 19 Aug, 2 (SDut) Latest: Southsea, 09 Sep, 1 (JGdr) Max count: Sway, 17 Aug, 61 (SKee)
VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 29 Jul, 0 (TJN) Latest: Farnborough, 07 Sep, 5 (KBW) Max count: Chilbolton, 21 Aug, 52 (GCE)
73.352 [B&F: 2138] Green Arches Anaplectoides prasina ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common
Common in broad-leaved, especially damp, woodland throughout the British Isles; widely distributed in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, but rarely numerous, with no evidence of any real decline. Wingspan 43-53 mm. Larva feeds on numerous herbaceous and woody plants, including Primrose, Knotgrass, Sallow, Dock, Honeysuckle, Bramble and Bilberry.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 174 | 288 | 1856 | 2022 |
| 11 | 231 | 187 | 1949 | 2022 |
| 12 | 355 | 465 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| 12 | 5 | 5 | 1 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Romsey, one, 28 Jun (NRJ); Wickham, one, 20 Jun (JRDS);
VC12: Overton, one, 17 Jun (ACr); Pamber Forest, one, 13 Jun (GJD); Alton, one, 16 Jul (DBO); Hammer Vale, Woolmer, one, 24 Jun; one, 20 Jul (ASwa)
73.353 [B&F: 2130] Dotted Clay Xestia baja ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common
Common in woodland, heathland, scrubby grassland and marshes throughout the British Isles. In Hampshire widely distributed, but not particularly common and generally absent from the chalk. Not recorded from the Isle of Wight since 1982. Wingspan 38-44 mm. Combination of general appearance and two black dots close to apex of forewing is distinctive. Larva feeds on herbaceous plants such as Primrose, Stinging Nettle and Dock in autumn, and woody plants such as Blackthorn, Bog-myrtle and Willow in spring.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 8 | 1 | 1856 | 1982 |
| 11 | 500 | 551 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 12 | 168 | 246 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 2 | 3 | 2 |
| 12 | 6 | 6 | 1 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Hurn, one, 15 Aug; two, 18 Aug (MJef);
VC12: Pamber Forest, one, 04 Sep (GJD); Hammer Vale, Woolmer, one, 30 Jul (ASwa); Fleet Pond, one, 17 Aug; one, 23 Aug (MHals); Yateley Common, one, field observation, 26 Aug; one, 26 Aug (BGD)
73.355 [B&F: 2132] Neglected Rustic Xestia castanea (Esper, 1798) - Local
Local on heathland and moorland, and in bogs throughout the British Isles, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In Hampshire common on heathland in the New Forest and in the north-east, but uncommon elsewhere and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 36-42 mm. Variable, with the grey form neglecta more common in the south of Britain, and red forms in the north of Britain; in north-east Hampshire both grey and red forms occur. The grey form may be confused with Square-spot Rustic X. xanthographa, but X. castanea always characterised by reniform and orbicular stigmata inconspicuous, concolorous with ground colour, outlined ochreous, and reniform stigma with dark dot in dorsal half (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on Heather, Bell Heather and Cross-leaved Heath.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 7 | 1 | 1856 | 2019 |
| 11 | 449 | 544 | 1949 | 2022 |
| 12 | 96 | 116 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 12 | 22 | 4 |
| 12 | 12 | 28 | 12 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Dibden Purlieu, NF, two, 07 Sep; two, 08 Sep; one, 09 Sep; one, 10 Sep; one, 11 Sep; two, 15 Sep; three, 16 Sep; two, 17 Sep; one, 18 Sep (RAC); Blackfield, one, 23 Sep (SJJ);
VC12: Ecchinswell*, one, conf MJW., 06 Sep (MTay, CSul); Pamber Forest, two, 04 Sep; one, 06 Sep (GJD); Whitehill, two, 10 Sep; one, 16 Sep (ASto); Hammer Vale, Woolmer, one, 06 Sep; one, 16 Sep (ASwa); Fleet Pond, 12, 06 Sep; two, 16 Sep; three, 23 Aug (MHals); Yateley Common, one, 26 Aug (BGD)
73.356 [B&F: 2135] Heath Rustic Xestia agathina (Duponchel, 1827) - Local
Local on acid heathland and moorland 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 locally common on heaths, especially the New Forest, although has suffered from habitat destruction in a number of former haunts, especially in the north-east. It is an occasional wanderer elsewhere. Wingspan 28-36 mm. A constant feature is the small, pale, very oblique orbicular stigmata. Larva feeds on Heather.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 28 | 31 | 1958 | 2022 |
| 11 | 521 | 686 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 12 | 40 | 54 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 10 | 17 | 6 |
| 12 | 9 | 24 | 14 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Dibden Purlieu, NF, two, 21 Aug; one, 22 Aug; one, 29 Aug; one, 30 Aug (RAC); Crawley, one, 10 Sep (GCE); Hurn, one, 03 Sep; two, 10 Sep; six, 12 Sep (MJef); Lymington, one, 09 Sep (PRD); Needs Ore NNR, one, 09 Aug (CNB);
VC12: Whitehill, one, 06 Sep; one, 08 Sep; one, 15 Sep; one, 16 Sep; one, 30 Sep (ASto); Hammer Vale, Woolmer, one, 06 Sep (ASwa); Yateley Common, larva, 14, field observation, 25 Mar (BGD); Fleet Pond, one, 06 Sep (MHals); Yateley Common, larva, three, field observation, 04 Apr (BGD)
73.357 [B&F: 2134] Square-spot Rustic Xestia xanthographa ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) - Common
Common in grassland, gardens and woodland rides throughout the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight abundant in areas of grassland and open woodland, and amongst the rank grasses of the chalk downs. Wingspan 32-40 mm. The pale reniform stigma of Square-spot Rustic should preclude confusion with any other species; the much less common Garden Dart Euxoa nigricans has the forewing narrower and a conspicuous claviform stigma (MBGBI Vol 9). Larva feeds on various grasses.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 1586 | 10711 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 11 | 18323 | 92017 | 200 | 2022 |
| 12 | 4614 | 32841 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 898 | 3587 | 31 |
| 12 | 360 | 2477 | 158 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 11 Aug, 1 (SDut) Latest: Eastoke, Hayling Island, 09 Sep, 3 (STho) Max count: Lee, 16 Sep, 31 (CTha)
VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 04 Sep, 0 (TJN) Latest: Farnborough, 10 Oct, 1 (KBW) Max count: Barton Stacey, 16 Sep, 158 (GCE)
73.358 [B&F: 2133] Six-striped Rustic Xestia sexstrigata (Haworth, 1809) - Common
Common in water meadows, marshes, fens, damp woodland, hedgerows, gardens and downland throughout much of the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread and common. Wingspan 36-38 mm. Fairly unmistakable. Larva polyphagous on herbaceous plants such as Hedge Bedstraw, Ribwort Plantain, Bramble, Bluebell and Water Figwort.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 197 | 358 | 1903 | 2022 |
| 11 | 2772 | 7039 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 12 | 933 | 2674 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 74 | 156 | 18 |
| 12 | 30 | 41 | 5 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: East Tytherley, 27 Aug, 2 (GCE) Latest: Needs Ore NNR, 16 Aug, 1 (CNB) Max count: Highbridge, Eastleigh, 19 Aug, 18 (SIng, PPir)
VC12: Earliest: Nether Wallop, 22 Aug, 1 (GCE) Latest: Hawley Meadows, 09 Aug, 2 (BGD) Max count: Upper Farringdon, 20 Aug, 5 (CJP)
73.359 [B&F: 2126] Setaceous Hebrew Character Xestia c-nigrum (Linnaeus, 1758) - Common
Common often abundant, especially in autumn, in a wide variety of habitats, including gardens, woodland, heathland and marshes throughout the British Isles. Widespread and extremely common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 35-45 mm. One of the most frequent visitors to light traps in autumn and very easily recognised, the most likely confusion species is Double Square-spot X. triangulum. Larva feeds on a wide variety on herbaceous plants, including Stinging Nettle, White Dead-nettle, Great Willowherb, Rosebay Willowherb and Greater Burdock.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 2147 | 11110 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 11 | 22734 | 109679 | 200 | 2022 |
| 12 | 7104 | 61701 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 760 | 2669 | 69 |
| 12 | 422 | 3104 | 204 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 19 Aug, 2 (SDut) Latest: Eastoke, Hayling Island, 09 Sep, 1 (STho) Max count: Crawley, 10 Sep, 69 (GCE)
VC12: Earliest: Cholderton, 29 Jul, 0 (TJN) Latest: Farnborough, 16 Sep, 3 (KBW) Max count: Morn Hill, Winchester, 02 Sep, 204 (CRB, PDF, DAS)
73.361 [B&F: 2128] Double Square-spot Xestia triangulum (Hufnagel, 1766) - Common
Common in deciduous woodland, hedgerows and gardens throughout the British Isles, where it is far more frequent than the superficially similar Triple-spotted Clay X. ditrapezium. Widespread and common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 36-46 mm. Larva feeds on Meadow Buttercup, Primrose, Cow Parsley and Wood Spurge.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 405 | 860 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 11 | 4465 | 7225 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 12 | 2562 | 6567 | 1948 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 60 | 82 | 6 |
| 12 | 57 | 84 | 7 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Summary
VC11: Earliest: Brockwood, 01 Jul, 1 (SDut) Latest: Needs Ore NNR, 02 Jul, 2 (PCra) Max count: Botley, 20 Jul, 6 (SLB)
VC12: Earliest: Nether Wallop, 22 Jun, 1 (GCE) Latest: Fleet Pond, 27 Jun, 1 (MHals) Max count: Cole Henley, 07 Jul, 7 (GCE)
73.365 [B&F: 2117] Autumnal Rustic Eugnorisma glareosa (Esper, 1788) - Common
Common in heathland, moorland, rough grassland and downland throughout the British Isles, a species of conservation concern under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Local in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight, with occasional wanderers turning up away from established localities. Wingspan 32-38 mm. Unlikely to be confused with any other British species, except on Shetland where Ingrailed Clay Diarsia mendica thulei resembles E. glareosa f. edda. Larva feeds on Heather, Bell Heather, Silver and Downy Birch, Bedstraw, Bluebell.
Records prior to 2023
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | First Record | Last Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 90 | 99 | 1856 | 2022 |
| 11 | 811 | 1330 | 1951 | 2022 |
| 12 | 270 | 534 | 1951 | 2022 |
2023 records
| Vice County | #Records | #Individuals | Max Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 46 | 85 | 7 |
| 12 | 44 | 115 | 22 |
Records by year
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
Record Details
VC11: Brockwood, two, 02 Sep; one, 15 Sep; one, 23 Sep (SDut); Blashford Lakes HIWWT NR, two, 13 Sep (JMed); one, 23 Sep (PWhtk); one, 04 Oct (CWri); Fordingbridge, one, 16 Sep (SCT); Marchwood, one, 01 Sep; Lee, one, 08 Sep (CTha); Romsey, one, 09 Sep; one, 24 Sep (NRJ); Ashley, three, 10 Sep (GCE); Dibden Purlieu, NF, one, 06 Sep; one, 09 Sep; one, 10 Sep; two, 12 Sep; two, 13 Sep (RAC); Crawley, one, 10 Sep; two, 10 Sep; one, 10 Sep; one, 10 Sep (GCE); Lymington, one, 25 Sep (IHrg); Botley, one, 14 Sep (SLB); Hurn, two, 12 Sep; four, 23 Sep (MJef); Hengistbury Head, five, 02 Oct (RPH det. MJef); three, 11 Sep; four, 03 Oct; seven, 04 Oct; six, 05 Oct; seven, 06 Oct; three, 07 Oct; four, 09 Oct; two, 10 Oct (MJef); Pennington, one, 16 Sep (RFC); Lymington, one, 17 Sep (PRD); Lisle Court, Lymington, one, 08 Sep; one, 09 Sep; one, 10 Sep (AMus, JPMar); present, 10 Sep; present, 09 Sep (MPrnc); one, 08 Sep; present, 09 Sep; present, 10 Sep (AMus);
VC12: Cholderton, one, 04 Sep (TJN); Wherwell, one, 23 Sep; one, 23 Sep (GCE); Stockbridge Down, 22, 08 Sep (MEdg); Wherwell, one, 07 Sep; Chilbolton, two, 18 Sep (GCE); The Hawk Conservancy, Weyhill, present, field observation, 20 Sep (iNat); Anna Valley, Andover, one, 06 Sep; one, 07 Sep; one, 08 Sep; two, 16 Sep; one, 24 Sep (TJN); Barton Stacey, one, 16 Sep; one, 16 Sep; one, 09 Oct; six, 11 Sep; 13, 11 Sep; one, 06 Sep; Longparish, one, 13 Sep; Barton Stacey, two, 11 Sep; three, 16 Sep; two, 11 Sep; six, 11 Sep; 16, 11 Sep; Hurstbourne Priors, one, 13 Sep; Barton Stacey, four, 11 Sep; three, 11 Sep; Longparish, two, 13 Sep; Hurstbourne Priors, one, 13 Sep; Barton Stacey, one, 16 Sep; Cole Henley, one, 12 Sep; one, 12 Sep; two, 12 Sep; one, 12 Sep (GCE); North Waltham*, one, 10 Sep (AJon); Tidgrove Warren,nr Overton*, two, 15 Sep (ACB); Ecchinswell, one, 26 Sep (MJN); Noar Hill HIWWT NR, Selborne, one, 01 Sep (AMD, FHay det. AMD); Whitehill, one, 15 Sep; one, 16 Sep; one, 17 Sep (ASto); Hammer Vale, Woolmer, one, 06 Sep (ASwa); Fleet Pond, one, 06 Sep; one, 16 Sep (MHals)