49.122 BF949

Aethes dilucidana

(Stephens, 1852)

Wingspan 12-15mm

A nationally scarce (Nb) species found in chalk and limestone areas mainly in the southern area of England (except the south-west) and south Wales.

The moth is single brooded and flies from June to August.

Larvae feed on the seeds of Wild Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) and Hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium). It is distinguished from the rather similar Aethes francillana and beatricella by the inner cross band finishing half-way across the wing from the dorsum and not reaching the costa.