Erebidae

72.006 Bloxworth Snout Hypena obsitalis (Hübner, [1813])

RDB

Similar species: Paignton Snout Hypena obesalis has similar markings but is larger (18 to 22mm) and the outer central cross-line fades before reaching the trailing edge.

Forewing: 15 to 17mm

Habitats: South facing sea-cliffs and dry slopes where the foodplant is present.

Habits: The moth flies around the foodplant at night when it also nectars at the flowers of Ivy and Traveller's-joy. It occasionally comes to sugar and sparingly to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Pellitory-of-the-wall, preferring plants growing in warmer sheltered places. It pupates in a cocoon spun amongst the foodplant.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Large-leaved Nettle.