New for the reserve.
Thirty species in the moth trap this morning including Eupoecilia angustana which is the first record for the reserve. Other note worthy species included 6 Elephant Hawkmoth, 10 Grass Rivulet (a Martin Mere specialty), Pale Tussock, Spruce Carpet, Least Black Arches and Figure of Eighty.
Wingspan 10-15 mm.
A small, brightly-coloured species, which occurs over much of Britain, comprising two forms, with a third in Shetland considered a subspecies.
The nominate form angustana occurs in woodland edges, meadows and similar locations, and feeds on a variety of plants including plantain (Plantagoand yarrow (Achillea). The f. fasciella is found on heathland, and feeds on heather (Calluna).
The flight period is from June to September.
Text from the excellent UKMOTHS.ORG.UK website.
