Crambidae

63.030 Knapweed Pearl Paratalanta hyalinalis (Hübner, 1796)

Notable B

Similar species:

Forewing: 13 to 15mm

Habitats: Sheltered chalk downland and clearings in woodland.

Habits: The moth is fairly easily disturbed from bushes in the day. It flies from dusk and has been recorded visiting the flowers of Old-mans-beard just after dark. It comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Common Knapweed. It initially feeds under a leaf in a light web making 'windows'. It then overwinters while small and in the spring continues feeding on the young leaves from a silk tunnel at the base of the plant. It pupates in a white cocoon amongst the leaves. It has also been recorded feeding on Great Mullein.