Hepialidae

03.005 Ghost Moth Hepialus humuli (Linnaeus, 1758)

Common

Similar species: A distinctive species. The Shetland form is smaller with a paler female. The white male has markings somewhat similar to the female.

Forewing: M 21 to 29mm, F 21 to 35mm

Habitats: Rough (and sometimes quite tall) grassland in the open or in woodland clearings.

Habits: The moth is nocturnal, flies from dusk and comes to light. The white males can be seen 'swaying' over the grass at dusk.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on the roots of grasses, docks, Common Nettle, Black Horehound, dandelions, Hop, Burdock, Water Figwort, Wild Strawberry and other plants. It overwinters twice and pupates in the soil.