Crambidae

63.017 Long-winged Pearl Anania lancealis ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Common

Similar species: The males of this species are distinctive, but even the shorter winged females are unlikely to be mistaken for other Crambids unless very worn.

Forewing: 13 to 16mm

Habitats: Damp open woodland, woodland rides, scrub and marsh. Also drier habitats where the foodplants are present.

Habits: The moth is easily disturbed from vegetation during the day. It flies from dusk and later comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Hemp Agrimony and also Wood Sage, Common Ragwort, Hedge Woundwort and Marsh Woundwort. It feeds on the leaves, flowers and seeds from a folded down leaf edge. The full-fed larva overwinters in a cocoon within a web on the plant or in the leaf litter. It pupates in the cocoon during the following May.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Small Teasel and Gypsywort.