Hantsmoths

Local in damp woodland, scrub, hedgerows, high moorland, fens and gardens throughout the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight generally rather uncommon, but widely distributed: possibly under-recorded due to early flight time. Wingspan 32-38 mm. The main confusion species is Devon Carpet L. otregiata, which see for differences. Superficially similar to a number of other species, including Phoenix Eulithis prunata, but has a pair of small notches on basal edge of broad bar on forewing; both these species fly later in the year. Larva feeds on Lady's Bedstraw, Heath Bedstraw, Hedge Bedstraw and Cleavers, over-wintering as a pupa.