32.012 BF703

Agonopterix atomella

([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

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Wingspan c. 20mm.

This is a scarce and declining species, and is one of several micro-moths recently added to the UK Biodiversity Action Plan list, for specific attention regarding their conservation.

It occurs in southern England as well as parts of north-west and north-east England and has been recorded from South Wales.

The larval foodplant is dyer's greenweed (Genista tinctoria), and the moth inhabits grassland where the foodplant occurs. Unfortunately this kind of habitat is on the decrease.

Adult moths are on the wing in July and August. They are very similar to A. scopariella, but unlike that species, do not show two distinct white spots on the forewing; instead these are obscured or absent.