1716       Rhodometra sacraria (Linnaeus, 1767)   VESTAL

A strongly migratory species headquartered south of 40°N that ranges from a near annual in southern England, to a relative rarity in northern Scotland. The species does not appear to be able to survive the UK winter in any stage. The adult, has an unmistakable uniform lemon-yellow ground colour with a single diagonal pink stripe, and assumes a roof-like, tectiform posture when at rest. In Dorset, the moth has been recorded in twenty-four of the past twenty-seven years. In favourable seasons, immigrants spawn resident broods when the larvae feed on knotgrass (Polygonum aviculare) and equal-leaved knotgrass (Polygonum rurivagum). Colonies are occasionally found in stubble fields where knotgrass grows. One such colony with an estimated two hundred freshly emerged and emerging moths was found in a derelict weedy potato field covered in knotgrass near Durlston lighthouse on 11 September 1947. “The range of colour forms in this colony was remarkable with no two examples alike, and several pink ab. sanguinaria were noted. A similar emerging colony was discovered at Langton Herring during the same week” (A Russell). Since 1947, instances of regularly trapped ‘home-grown’ pink or semi-pink Vestals have occurred in 1983, 1989 and 1992. In each of these years, primary immigrant yellow Vestals were trapped during the May to July period.

The inability to survive the UK winter is demonstrated by the contrast in the phenomenal season of 2006 and the utter dearth in numbers in 2007. The linear distribution of records across the county during immigration, suggest that Vestals fly at altitude on migration, a characteristic shared with a few migrant micromoths such as Plutella xylostella₄₆₄, Nomophila noctuella₁₃₉₈ and Palpita vitrealis₁₄₀₈. For many other immigrant species, observations tend to increase exponentially towards the coast in any given immigration event, and for these, low altitude flight is likely to be the norm. The phenology of this species likely reflects the multiple brood-cycle of resident colonies in Iberia and north-west Africa; increasing numbers spawned by the northward colonisation of mainland Europe as the season progresses, result in a quadrupling on average of sequential brood peaks up to mid-September.

1718       Phibalapteryx virgata (Hufnagel, 1767)   OBLIQUE STRIPED     Notable/Nb

A scarce and decreased species restricted to chalk downland and coastal sandhills in southern England and Breckland, the larva feeding on lady’s bedstraw (Galium verum). In Dorset, the moth has been found just once in the last thirty-eight years. This contrasts sharply with the observation penned in 1967: “Of regular and fairly frequent occurrence on the downs” (per W Parkinson Curtis ms). The older records indicate that the species was local on unimproved chalk grassland in the north-east of the county, notably at Badbury Rings, Hod Hill and Handley Down, and presumably where lady’s bedstraw and other dry grassland bedstraws carpeted the ground. Much of this prime habitat has disappeared under the plough, and the small fragments that remain are grazed so intensively that the host plants are never allowed to form drifts, so the moth has inevitably all but disappeared from the scene. The only recent record comes from a disused railway-line where the small chalky embankments are coated with lady’s bedstraw: Hammoon, at MV light on 12 May 1998 (S Barrett, P Davey). The locality is five kilometers from Hod Hill where the moth once occurred and upon which herb-rich grassland habitat was obliterated by intensive cattle grazing. Conservation measures should include the provision of lightly-grazed areas of unimproved chalk grassland that support communities of bedstraw plant species, particularly lady’s bedstraw on Dorset SSSI sites such as Hod Hill, Melbury Down, Badbury Rings and Handley Down. Such efforts may lead to viable communities of this species in the east of the county. Continued monitoring for the presence of this species is recommended. It is a double-brooded species and flies between mid-May and mid-June, and again in August.

A recent record of the moth on Portland, 18 May 2008 (M Cade) coincided with a warm east to north-easterly airflow. As the species has not been recorded from the coastal belt previously, this example may have originated from coastal sandhill habitat bordering the Channel or further east along the coastline of the Low Countries.

1719       Orthonama vittata (Borkhausen, 1794)   OBLIQUE CARPET

A local species in Britain, the larva feeding on common marsh-bedstraw (Galium palustre) and fen bedstraw (Galium uliginosum). In Dorset, the moth colonises three wetland habitat types where it tends to be at low density. Firstly: river valley habitat such as Milton-on Stour, Christchurch on the River Stour, Wool on the River Frome, Iwerne Minster on the River Iwerne, Trigon Ford on the River Piddle and Wareham Meadows. Secondly: inland mire or marsh habitat on sandy soil such as Stoborough Heath, Middlebere Heath and Studland Heath; thirdly estuarine marsh, coastal marsh or lagoon habitat such as is found at or near West Bexington, Radipole, Lodmoor, Arne Bay, Brownsea Island and Hengistbury Head.

The following were recorded from light traps in localities where the species tends not to occur and are thought to be dispersed individuals from core habitat in south-east England or immigrants from the Continent: Portland, on 9 August 2003 (M Cade), Puddletown, on 13 August 2003 (H Wood Homer), Woolland, on 6 August 2003 (P Benham), Trigon, on 11 August 2003 (C Manley). Many other wetland species appeared in unlikely localities across the county during the intense heatwave that afflicted western Europe during August 2003.

1720       Orthonama obstipata (Fabricius, 1794)   GEM

A strongly migratory species with a global distribution (apart from Australasia) occurring annually across southern districts of England, the larval foodplant is unknown. Like the Vestal, this species does not seem to be able to survive the UK winter in any stage. The markings and light brown colouration of the adult male are in stark contrast to the much darker, purple-hued, female. In Dorset, the moth has been recorded in sixteen of the past twenty years. In favourable seasons, immigrants spawn up to two resident broods, and these are undoubtedly supplemented by further influxes from abroad whenever suitable weather conditions arise. Brood peaks double or treble in size with time. The moth has been recorded in twenty-four of the past twenty-seven years.

Two moths were trapped at light within an alder swamp at St Leonard’s Peats on 6 July 1998 (P Davey), in a year when relatively large numbers of Gems were recorded. The locality contains much common marsh-bedstraw (Galium palustre) and fen bedstraw (Galium uliginosum), host plants for many ‘Carpets’. There was no opportunity for immigration at the time of capture. 

1722       Xanthorhoe designata (Hufnagel, 1767)   FLAME CARPET

A generally distributed species in Britain, the larval foodplant is unknown. In Dorset, the moth has been recorded in thirty-three sites, but only a maximum of two or three records in any single year for any single locality. The exception is a damp deciduous woodland site at Merley close to the River Stour near Wimborne where approximately forty percent of all Dorset records have occurred in just two years of trapping.

1724       Xanthorhoe spadicearia [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   RED TWIN-SPOT CARPET

A common species in Britain, the larva feeding on lady’s bedstraw (Galium verum), goosegrass (Galium aparine), knotgrass (Polygonum aviculare) and other herbaceous low-growing plants. In Dorset, the moth is common to abundant on chalky soils. It is recorded in marsh and river habitat where it is possibly associated with common marsh-bedstraw (Galium palustre) and fen bedstraw (Galium uliginosum); also on clay soils and in nutrient-rich arable land where goosegrass and knotgrass abound, respectively. It is least frequent on open heathland.

1725       Xanthorhoe ferrugata (Clerck, 1759)   DARK-BARRED TWIN-SPOT CARPET

A widespread species in Britain, the larval foodplant is unknown. In Dorset, the moth is very local, being recorded from marshes, river banks, wet margins and ditch habitat where common marsh-bedstraw (Galium palustre), fen bedstraw (Galium uliginosum) or water dock (Rumex hydrolapathum) are potential foodplants. This species is likely to have a similar distribution to that of the Oblique Carpet₁₇₁₉. The moth is rather difficult to separate from the Red Twin-spot Carpet₁₇₂₄ at first glance. Diagnostics include: a lack of pinkish ground colour; a greater contrast in forewing colours; a single deep notch on the outer edge of the median band; restricted to damp habitat. The flight periods of the two species coincide.

1726       Xanthorhoe quadrifasiata (Clerck, 1759)   LARGE TWIN-SPOT CARPET

A local species confined to southern Britain, the larva feeding on bedstraw (Galium spp.) and possibly hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna). There is just one record for this species in Dorset: St Ives, at MV on 23 July 1987 (Dr J Clarke). A north-easterly airflow was established at the time, and dispersal from a north Hampshire source was possible on this occasion.

1727       Xanthorhoe montanata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   SILVER-GROUND CARPET

A common species in Britain, the larva feeding on bedstraw (Galium spp.) and other herbaceous low-growing plants. In Dorset, the moth is common very locally in weedy ditches, deciduous coverts, hedgerows and rough bushy places. It is rare on open downland and along the coast, and absent from open heathland and pine woods. The national norm is for a single  brood between late May and mid-July. In Dorset, however, the first brood is on the wing between early May, exceptionally late April, and the end of June; a partial second brood has been noted in five of the past ten years well into July. The following daytime records refer to ab. limbaria, a form where much of the median fascia is obsolete apart from a few small blotches: Badbury Rings, on 4 June 1938 (see photo) and Kingston, on 7 June 1933 (A Russell).

1728       Xanthorhoe fluctuata (Linnaeus, 1758)   GARDEN CARPET

A common species in Britain, the larva feeding on members of the cabbage family (Brassicaceae spp.). In Dorset, the moth is most common in suburban localities and along the Purbeck coast and on Portland, where cabbage (Brassica oleracea) is grows on cliff tops and on ledges. Elsewhere it is noted in moderate numbers.  The moth may be observed on the wing over a five-month period, and two brood cycles are likely. Variation has been noted in ab. immaculata, a form where the median fascia on the forewing is absent: Scar Bank, at light on 21 May 1948, and 7 September 1951 (A Russell), and ab. costovata, (see photo): Swanage, at MV light on 1 August 2004 (R Cox).

1730       Scotopteryx peribolata (Hübner, 1817)   SPANISH CARPET

Resident in the Channel Islands, otherwise a very rare immigrant, the larva feeding on prostrate broom (Cytisus scoparius ssp maritimus). This xerothermic species is widespread across south-western, central and eastern Europe, colonising warm situations where host foodplants, gorse (Ulex spp.), broom (Cytisus spp.) and Genista spp grow. In Dorset, the moth was recorded on several occasions, as follows: Shell Bay, 12 September 1990 (D Young), two males at MV light on 31 August 1991 and two on 12 October 1991 (R McCormick et al). It is probable that these Dorset individuals were transitory residents that managed to survive a couple of seasons in gorse habitat before succumbing to collectors.

1731       Scotopteryx bipunctaria [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   CHALK CARPET     Notable/Nb

Local in England, the larva feeding on bird’s-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus), and trefoils and clovers (Trifolium spp.). In Dorset, this xerothermic species is associated with unimproved herb-rich grassland on well-drained chalky soil downland, particularly where there is rocky or bare earth terrain. It ranges from frequent inland to common along the Jurassic coast. Recommendations for promoting this species on chalk downland SSSI’s include setting grazing levels that create short turf regions within the grassland mosaic and to physically create scraped chalk surfaces to provide high-temperature microhabitat for the adults to bask by day.

1732       Scotopteryx chenopodiata (Linnaeus, 1758)   SHADED BROAD-BAR

A widespread species in Britain, the larva feeds on clovers (Trifolium spp.) and vetches (Vicia spp.). In Dorset, the moth is widespread, and ranges from virtually absent on acid soil, to abundant on unimproved damp grassland on chalky or neutral soil.

1733       Scotopteryx plumbeolata (Hufnagel, 1767)   LEAD BELLE

A local species found in heathland and moorland regions of western Britain, the larva feeds on gorse (Ulex europaeus) and broom (Cytisus spp.). In Dorset, the moth was discovered by T Box in 2006 atop Black Down colonising gorse growing on the acid gravel soils around Hardy’s Monument. This remains the only site where the species has been found in the county. This species is very similar to July Belle₁₇₃₄. Diagnostics include a ‘pipped’ discal spot; a discal spot off-centred closer to the outer border of the central median band; rather irregular median band borders.

1734       Scotopteryx luridata (Hufnagel, 1767)   JULY BELLE

A species found throughout Britain, the larva feeds on gorse (Ulex europaeus) and petty whin (Genista anglica). In Dorset, the moth occurs wherever gorse is abundant, particularly on heathland, but also on gorse-clad chalk downland. The record below refers to a strong colony of July Belle on an unimproved neutral grassland site where there is no gorse. However, dyer’s greenweed (Genista tinctoria) is well established there: Rooksmoor, fourteen disturbed by day on 4 June 1997, three by day on 5 June 2003 (P Davey).

1735       Catarhoe rubidata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   RUDDY CARPET     Notable/Nb

A local species in southern Britain, the larva feeding on hedge bedstraw (Galium mollugo) and lady’s bedstraw (Galium verum). In Dorset, the moth is very local and at low density, and confined to open woodland, scrub, and old hedgerows on chalky soils inland, and bushy places between Durlston and Charmouth, including Portland.  Recommendations for unimproved grassland SSSIs on chalky soil include: maintaining areas of scrub and hedgerow that both contain hedge bedstraw and provide shelter for the adult moth; setting grazing levels to create medium-length sward regions within the grassland mosaic that host good stocks of lady’s bedstraw.

1736       Catarhoe cuculata (Hufnagel, 1767)   ROYAL MANTLE

A local species confined to southern England, the larva feeding on hedge bedstraw (Galium mollugo) and lady’s bedstraw (Galium verum). In Dorset, the moth is rare. The few records hint at a similar distribution to that of the Ruddy Carpet₁₇₃₅, but even more thinly spread. The majority of inland records tend to be from unimproved grassland on chalky soils where lady’s bedstraw is probably the main foodplant. Conservation measures are the same as those proposed for Ruddy Carpet₁₇₃₅.

1738       Epirrhoe alternata (Müller, 1764)   COMMON CARPET

A common species in Britain, the larva feeding on members of the bedstraw family (Galium spp.). In Dorset, the moth is found wherever bedstraw plants grow, indeed it is locally abundant on dry or damp unimproved grassland where bedstraws grow in quantity, and in localities where cleavers (Galium aparine) festoons hedges and ditches. On sandy soil it is infrequent. The flight time covers a four-month period and two brood cycles are suspected with a period of eighty days, on average between the first and second peaks of each cycle. The first cycle is a full double brood with peaks in early May and late July. The second cycle is a partial double brood with a main peak in late June plus a small partial brood in mid-September. The national norm is for a single brood in June and July in northern Britain and a double brood across the south.

1739       Epirrhoe rivata (Hübner, 1813)   WOOD CARPET

A local species in England, the larva feeding on hedge bedstraw (Galium mollugo) and lady’s bedstraw (Galium verum). In Dorset, the moth is frequent very locally and has been found in a number of unimproved grassland localities on chalky soil. Inland, favoured localities include Lyscombe Hill, Puddletown, the Purbeck Ridge, Badbury Rings, and Bottlebush Down. Coastal localities include Charmouth, West Bexington and Durlston. Care is needed in identifying potential Wood Carpet as they closely resemble the Common Carpet₁₇₃₈. Diagnostics include: outer white band of the forewing and hind-wing tend not to be bisected by a black line.

1740       Epirrhoe galiata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   GALIUM CARPET

A coastal species in Britain, occasionally found inland on calcareous soils in southern England, the larva feeding on hedge bedstraw (Galium mollugo) and lady’s bedstraw (Galium verum). In Dorset, the moth is locally common in unimproved dry grassland along the coast between Durlston and Charmouth, including Portland, and at low-density on a handful of unimproved grassland localities on chalky soil inland, such as Melbury Down in north Dorset. The flight time covers in excess of four months, with two brood cycles suspected, with a period of seventy-two days, on average, between the first and second peaks of each cycle. The first has peaks in early June and mid-August and the second has a main peak in early-July and early-September. The national norm is for a single brood between June and early August in northern Britain and a double brood in the south.

1741       Costaconvexa polygrammata (Borkhausen, 1794)   MANY-LINED

An extinct resident that was last seen in Cambridgeshire, Burwell Fen and Wicken Fen, in the 1870s, the larva feeding on bedstraw (Galium spp.). The moth is widespread in Europe, colonising wetland. In Dorset, eleven individuals have been caught at light traps in coastal localities and all except the August 2006 examples are suspected immigrants: Walditch, on 10 June 2006 (M Parsons), West Bexington, on 5 August 1993, 6 August 2006 (R Eden), Portland, on 19 June 2000, 10 and 12 September 2005, 13 and 24 June 2006, 4, 5 and 8 August 2006 (M Cade). There was no opportunity for immigration in the first week of August 2006 as west then north-westerly airflows from the Atlantic prevailed. Although Many-lined were recorded elsewhere in the UK around 10 June 2006, none were observed in the UK, apart from Dorset during the first week of August 2006. It seems likely therefore, that these were home-grown offspring from the June influx. 

1742       Camptogramma bilineata (Linnaeus, 1758)   YELLOW SHELL

A common species in Britain, the larva feeding on chickweed (Stellaria spp.), dock (Rumex spp.), grasses (Gramineae spp.), and other low-growing plants. In Dorset, the moth is ubiquitous and common to abundant, and far more frequently flushed out from its hiding places during the daytime than encountered at light traps at night. The national norm is a single brood between mid-June and mid-August, but in Dorset the moth is double-brooded, the first brood between late May and early July, and a second between mid-August and late September. The peak of the first brood is, on average, twice that of the second brood.

1745       Larentia clavaria (Haworth, 1809)   MALLOW

A species occurring throughout Britain, but more local further north, the larva feeding on common mallow (Malva sylvestris), marsh mallow (Althaea officinalis), and hollyhock (Alcea rosa). In Dorset, the moth is essentially a coastal species where it is local, and usually at low density.  It is rare inland despite its foodplant being widespread on disturbed, dry, nutrient-rich soils and along roadside verges. There are records from Iwerne Minster, the Wareham area and from Hurn. Although the moth bears a superficial similarity to the Shaded Broad-bar₁₇₃₂, the difference in emergence dates provide a useful clue for gauging identity.

1746       Anticlea badiata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   SHOULDER STRIPE

A species found over much of southern Britain, but more local further north, the larva feeding on wild rose (Rosa canina). In Dorset, the moth is common in scrub and hedgerow habitat wherever the foodplant occurs.

1747       Anticlea derivata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   STREAMER

A species found over much of southern Britain, but more local further north, the larva feeding on wild rose (Rosa canina). In Dorset, the moth is common in scrub and hedgerow habitat wherever wild rose is to be found. The distribution and frequency is much the same as for the Shoulder-stripe₁₇₄₆, but the Streamer is on the wing about a fortnight later, on average.

1748       Mesoleuca albicillata (Linnaeus, 1758)   BEAUTIFUL CARPET

A low density species in Britain, the larva feeding on bramble (Rubus fruticosus) and raspberry (Rubus idaeus). In Dorset, the moth is rare and tends to be recorded as singletons from the eastern half of the county. The few Beautiful Carpet records contain locality data that hint at a preferred habitat of open, often actively forested woodland where bramble flourishes in recently created clearings.

1749       Pelurga comitata (Linnaeus, 1758)   DARK SPINACH

A species found across much of Britain, apart from northern Scotland, the larva feeding on goosefoot (Chenopodium spp.) and orache (Atriplex spp.). In Dorset, the moth is rare (less than thirty records) and tends to be observed singly on any given night suggesting perhaps that the species is either at a very low density indeed, or it is a transient resident of high-nutrient verge and disturbed ground, or that it has immigrant rather than resident status. Unlike the Plain Pug₁₈₄₂ which also depends on goosefoots and oraches, this species does not seem to be associated with oraches growing on muddy shorelines, for example there are no records from the Fleet region nor from twenty-five years trapping at Arne next to Poole Harbour. The species moths appeared unexpectedly at light traps in Hampshire localities on 21 August 1996, 9 August 1998 and 29 July 1999, respectively. The following were noted in Dorset coincident with these dates: Portland, on 19 August 1996, 29 July 1999 (M Cade), Grove, on 19 August 1996 (D Walbridge), Gaunts Common, on 14 August 1996, 9 August 1998, 13 August 1998 (P Davey).

1750       Lampropteryx suffumata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   WATER CARPET

A generally distributed species in Britain, the larva feeding on lady’s bedstraw (Galium verum), hedge bedstraw (Galium mollugo) and heath bedstraw (Galium saxatile). In Dorset, the moth occurs at low density in scattered colonies across three rather different habitat types. The first of these, and where the moth is most frequently encountered, is unimproved dry chalk grassland where lady’s bedstraw and hedge bedstraw are frequent, both on the coast and inland. The second habitat is wet woodland containing fen bedstraw (Galium uliginosum) on alluvial soils and clays in north-west of Dorset, for example, Powerstock, Bracketts Coppice, plus several localities in the Poole Basin, notably Withy Wood at Hengistbury Head. The third habitat is river and water meadow, where fen bedstraw and common marsh bedstraw (Galium palustre) occur; Milton-on-Stour and Woolland and localities for the moth.

 1751       Lampropteryx otregiata (Metcalfe, 1917)   DEVON CARPET      Notable/Nb

A local species confined to south-west Britain, the larva feeding on fen bedstraw (Galium uliginosum) and common marsh bedstraw (Galium palustre). In Dorset the moth is rare but increasing and is now found in several widely scattered sites. Historically, it was only known to from the region close to the Devon border. Its preferred habitat is the dampest parts of woodland where its host foodplant grows commonly, for example it is frequent at Powerstock Common, and has been recorded from Melcombe Park, East Stoke, Trigon and Rye Hill Wood. The species has also been recorded from scrub dominated fenland at Slepe Bog, and close to river habitat at Bourton.

1752       Cosmorhoe ocellata (Linnaeus, 1758)   PURPLE BAR

A widespread species in Britain, the larva feeding on hedge bedstraw (Galium mollugo) and other species of bedstraw (Galium spp.). In Dorset, the moth is found in almost every habitat. It ranges from infrequent on sandy soil, to frequent on unimproved grassland on chalky soil inland and along the coastal belt. The flight time covers five months, and two brood cycles are suspected with a period of eighty days, on average, between the first and second peaks of each cycle. The first cycle is a double brood with peaks at the end of May and again in mid-August. The second is a partial double brood with a main peak in early-July and a partial brood in mid-September. The national norm is for a single brood between late May and early July, with a partial second brood in the south in late August and early September.

1754       Eulithis prunata (Linnaeus, 1758)   PHOENIX

A local species in Britain, the larva feeding on red currant (Ribes rubrum), black currant (Ribes nigrum) and gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa). In Dorset, the moth is frequent in areas close to allotments and nurseries where host foodplants are grown for domestic use, and from damp woodland where red currant forms an understory. Phoenix moths have been trapped in Briars Wood, Oakers Wood, Arne Wood, Chetterwood, Holt Forest and Boys Wood. The national norm is for a single brood in July and August, but in Dorset, a partial bivoltine cycle is suspected with the moth on the wing over a three-month period. The first brood is on the wing between early June and late July, and the second brood flies between early August and early September.

1755       Eulithis testata (Linnaeus, 1761)   CHEVRON

A widespread species in Britain, the larva feeding on sallow (Salix spp), creeping willow (Salix repens), birch (Betula spp.) and aspen (Populus tremula).  In Dorset, the moth is found exclusively on sandy soil where it is locally common. The following light trap records coincided with westerly airflows, and dispersal from upland regions to the west of Dorset are suspected on each occasion: Bridport, on 18 July 2004 (D Wedd), West Bexington, on 14 August 1993, 3 September 2001 (R Eden), Upwey, on 28 July 2004 (P Harris), Gillingham, on 27 July 1996 (G Hopkins). The following records are of potential second brood individuals and coincided with southerly airflows from abroad: Puddletown, at MV on 27 October 2001, 30 October 2001 (H Wood Homer).

1756       Eulithis populata (Linnaeus, 1758)   NORTHERN SPINACH

A local species restricted to moorland in northern and western Britain, the larva feeding on bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus). There are two light trap records from Dorset at localities where there is no bilberry. The first was recorded following one of the severest winters in the twentieth century and is lodged in the Dorchester Museum collection: Kington Magna, in September 1963 (H Moore). The second was trapped during a spell of strong northerly winds: Child Okeford, on 28 June 1997 (S Barrett).

1757       Eulithis mellinata (Fabricius, 1787)   SPINACH

A species found widely across England and Wales but local in Scotland, the larva feeding on red currant (Ribes rubrum) and black currant (Ribes nigrum). In Dorset, the moth is found almost exclusively in urban areas close to allotments and nurseries where the host foodplants are grown. Although red currant is a frequent understory shrub in damp woodland, no colonies have yet been encountered in these ‘natural’ situations.

1758       Eulithis pyraliata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   BARRED STRAW

A common species in Britain, the larva feeding on cleavers (Galium aparine) and other bedstraw (Galium spp.) species. In Dorset, the moth is common where cleavers abounds, on hedgebanks and on nutrient rich arable. It is frequent on unimproved grassland where bedstraw grows in quantity on chalky soil and along the coast. The few individuals seen at Holton Heath Marsh, Hurn and at Hengistbury Head, hint that fen bedstraw (Galium uliginosum) and common marsh bedstraw (Galium palustre) host the moth in river and marsh habitat.

1759       Ecliptopera silaceata [Denis & Sciffermüller 1775]   SMALL PHOENIX

A generally distributed species in Britain, the larva feeding on rosebay willowherb (Chamerion angustifolium), broad-leaved willowherb (Epilobium montanum), and related species. In Dorset, the moth is widely distributed and found in a various habitats. It occurs near rivers, streams, ditches and ponds where rosebay willowherb abounds, and in disturbed woodland, hedgebanks, gardens and waste places where broad-leaved willowherb grows. It has been found most commonly at Whiteway Fen where hoary willowherb (Epilobium parviflorum) and marsh willowherb (Epilobium palustre) grow amongst rushes in pasture made wet by chalk springs emerging from the ground. The peak of the second brood is, on average, nearly five times larger than that of the first brood.

1760       Chloroclysta siterata (Hufnagel, 1767)   RED-GREEN CARPET

A local species in Britain, the larva feeding on oak (Quercus spp.), birch (Betula spp.) and rowan (Sorbus aucuparia). In Dorset, the moth is common in deciduous woodland containing mature birch and oak. It is also frequent on the coast where evergreen oak (Quercus ilex) is the likely host foodplant, for example at Durlston, Branksome Chine and Highcliffe.  Male moths perish before year-end, but females hibernate and then slowly re-appear, mainly during the late spring. The absence of males helps explain the much smaller post-winter population.

1761       Chloroclysta miata (Linnaeus, 1758)   AUTUMN GREEN CARPET

A species occurring widely in northern and western Britain, but local and decreasing in the south and east, the larva feeding on sallow (Salix spp.) and birch (Betula spp.). This species has a similar life-cycle to the Red-green Carpet₁₇₆₀ in the adult stage, with females on the wing during the spring months only. In Dorset, old records exist from damp habitat on chalky and clay soils: Norden, female at rest inside porch on 15 January 1902, and Corfe Castle, at ivy blossom on 13 November 1891 (Reverend E Bankes), Milton Abbey, two at MV light on 14 October 1965 (H Edmunds), Iwerne Minster, at MV light on 20 October 1956, 27 August 1959,6 September 1959, 11 November 1965 (H Moore), Chamberlaynes, at honeycomb on 20 September 1935, 21 September 1935, 26 September 1935, 28 September 1935, 3 October 1935, 14 October 1935, 15 October 1935, at light on 17 October 1938 (H Andrews).The species has decreased dramatically in recent years in south-east England, and it was doubted whether it still occurred in Dorset, however, a single moth was discovered at Alners Gorse, on 13 April 2006 (P Butter). Care is needed in identifying potential Autumn-green Carpet as they closely resemble Red-green Carpet₁₇₆₀. Diagnostics include: pale ground colour with no reddish colouration plus whitish hindwings.

1762       Chloroclysta citrata (Linnaeus, 1761)   DARK MARBLED CARPET

A local species in southern England but widespread elsewhere, the larva feeding on sallow (Salix spp.), birch (Betula spp.), bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) and wild strawberry (Fragaria vesca) In Dorset, the moth is local, occurring on chalky soils in central and north-east Dorset, typically in open woodland such as Stubhampton Bottom where it is frequent, and on the Purbeck Ridge where it is very local. Elsewhere, it is found in the west of the county in open woodland on clay soil, for example, Powerstock Common and Hooke Park. It is absent from sandy soils. Care is needed in identifying this species as it closely resembles the Common Marbled Carpet₁₇₆₄, and both species have many colour forms. Diagnostics include: a single-brooded species and on the wing between the first and second broods of the Common Marbled Carpet₁₇₆₄; the angle made by the post-median line where it turns on the fore-wing is acute but on the Common Marbled Carpet₁₇₆₄ tends to be obtuse.

1764       Chloroclysta truncata (Hufnagel, 1767)   COMMON MARBLED CARPET

A common species in Britain, the larva feeding on many plants including sallow (Salix spp.), birch (Betula spp.), bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), dock (Rumex spp.) and bramble (Rubus fruticosus). In Dorset, the moth is common in every habitat apart from open heathland where it is frequent only.

1765       Cidaria fulvata (Forster, 1771)   BARRED YELLOW

A local species in Britain, the larva feeding on wild rose (Rosa canina). In Dorset, the moth is common in scrub and hedgerow habitat wherever wild rose is to be found; it occurs at roughly the same density as the Shoulder-stripe₁₇₄₆. In the warm summer of 1995, several second brood moths were recorded at light traps: Gillingham, seven between 25 August 1995 and 30 September 1995 (G Hopkins), Lilliput, on 14 October 1995 (A Bromby). A further late individual: Swanage, on 1 September 1998 (R Cox).

1766       Plemyria rubiginata [Denis & Sciffermüller 1775]   BLUE-BORDERED CARPET

A species with a general distribution in Britain, the larva feeding on blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), alder (Alnus glutinosa), birch (Betula spp.), plum (Prunus domestica) and apple (Malus domestica). In Dorset, the moth is local and at low density, most frequently found in blackthorn scrub, and in town gardens and orchards where fruit trees grow. Roughly two thirds of all Dorset records are from West Bexington amongst the blackthorn thickets at the site. Singletons from river systems and swamp habitat suggest colonisation also of alder.

1767       Thera firmata (Hübner, 1822)   PINE CARPET

An occasionally local species in Britain, the larva feeding on scots pine (Pinus sylvestris). In Dorset, the moth is common wherever lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) and scots pine has been block-planted. Adult moths have been observed in every month between May and December; although the species is reputed to be univoltine in the UK between July and November, three broods are suggested from the records. The peak of the October generation is, on average, nearly twice as large as the July peak. The length of time between the peaks of a given cycle is roughly eighty-five days. Care is needed in identifying this species greyish colour forms may, at first glance, resemble Grey Pine Carpet₁₇₆₈.

1768       Thera obeliscata (Hübner, 1787)   GREY PINE CARPET

A widespread species in Britain, the larva feeding on scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), spruce (Picea spp.) and fir (Abies spp.). In Dorset, the moth is common to abundant in conifer plantation. The moth is bivoltine with two double-brood cycles suspected in May and September, and again in late June and October. The length of time between the peaks of a given cycle is roughly one hundred and eighteen days. The peak of the autumn generations is, on average, six times larger than that emerging during the spring.

1769       Thera britannica (Turner, 1925)   SPRUCE CARPET

A species found over much of Britain, but local in Scotland, the larva feeding on norway spruce (Picea abies), sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis), douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and western hemlock-spruce (Tsuga heterophylla). In Dorset, the moth is common in spruce and fir plantation. The moth is bivoltine with two brood cycles paralleling those of the Grey Pine Carpet₁₇₆₈. The length of time between the peaks of a given cycle is roughly one hundred and twenty-nine days. The following singletons observed at light traps between January and March may be partial third brood individuals: Puddletown, on 24 December 2000, 7 January 2003 (H Wood Homer), Bere Wood, two on 15 March 1997 (R Cook et al).

1771a    Thera cupressata (Geyer, 1831)   CYPRESS CARPET

A recent colonist of southern England, first recorded in Sussex in September 1984 and in the Channel Islands the following year, the larva feeding on monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa). In Dorset, the species was first recorded at Studland and at St Ives in late October 1988. The following year, eighteen moths were trapped at Durlston. Since this time the moth has spread west and north. By 1992 it had reached Portland, and by 1994, West Bexington. It was found at Preston, Upwey and Winfrith during 1997. By 1999 it had reached Sherborne, and the following year it had been noted in Dorchester. The moth is now well established along the south coast on monterey cypress and leyland cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii), and continues to appear in new sites across mainland Dorset wherever these have been planted as hedges, which tend to be in urban environments.

1773       Electrophaes corylata (Thunberg, 1792)   BROKEN-BARRED CARPET

A species found over much of Britain, the larva feeding on birch (Betula spp.), hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), oak (Quercus spp.), blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) and other deciduous trees. In Dorset, the moth is widely distributed and frequent in birch and oak woodland. The moth also occurs on downland where hawthorn grows, and along the coast among blackthorn thickets. The following late date coincided with a period of major immigration and suggests perhaps a second-brood Continental individual: West Bexington, at MV light on 14 August 1993 (R Eden).

1774       Colostygia olivata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   BEECH-GREEN CARPET

A moorland species in northern Britain, but restricted to chalky soil in southern Britain where it is very local, the larva feeding on lady’s bedstraw (Galium verum), hedge bedstraw (Galium mollugo) and heath bedstraw (Galium saxatile). In Dorset, the moth is restricted to unimproved grassland and coastal cliff habitat on Portland. In the nineteenth century it was deemed abundant in the 1870s (Dale), and common around 1895 (Richardson). Today the species is best described as extremely local and at low density on the island, probably due to the reduction in the overall extent of unimproved grassland. Recommendations for promoting colonies of this species on Portland include: setting grazing levels on unimproved grassland to increase stocks of lady’s bedstraw, and, maintaining areas of scrub and hedgerow that contain hedge bedstraw and also provide shelter for the adult moth.

1775       Colostygia multistrigaria (Haworth, 1809)   MOTTLED GREY

A widespread species in Britain, the larva feeding on lady’s bedstraw (Galium verum) and heath bedstraw (Galium saxatile). In Dorset, the moth frequents two habitat types: the first, where it is locally common, is unimproved grassland on chalky soils where lady’s bedstraw grows inland and along the coast between Durlston and Charmouth, including Portland. The second is heathland and acid grassland in the Poole Basin where heath bedstraw grows; in this sandy habitat it is at low density and seems to have decreased in recent years. The following individuals were observed at light traps on relatively early dates: Portland, on 5 February 1994, 19 January 2006 (M Cade), Puddletown, on 14 January 2003 (H Wood Homer), Durlston, five on 12 February 2004 (S Nash).

1776       Colostygia pectinataria (Knoch, 1781)   GREEN CARPET

A common species in Britain, the larva feeding on lady’s bedstraw (Galium verum), and hedge bedstraw (Galium mollugo). In Dorset, the moth has a similar distribution to the Common Carpet₁₇₃₈, and it too is locally abundant on unimproved grassland where bedstraw grows in quantity, and in localities where cleavers (Galium aparine) festoons hedges and ditches. Elsewhere it is common, but on sandy soil it is at low density. The peak of the first brood is, on average, twice as large as that of the second.

1777       Hydriomena furcata (Thunberg, 1784)   JULY HIGHFLYER

A common species in Britain, the larva feeding on sallow (Salix spp.), hazel (Corylus avellana), bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) and heather (Erica spp.). In Dorset, this highly variable moth is common to abundant in localities where hazel or sallow abound, but infrequent to rare elsewhere. There is no indication that the species feeds on heather in the county.

1778       Hydriomena impluviata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   MAY HIGHFLYER

A local species in Britain, the larva feeding on alder (Alnus spp.). In Dorset, the moth is common in the valley swamps at Powerstock Common and in St Leonard’s Peats within Hurn Forest where alder is the dominant tree species. The moth is also frequent in river courses and streams where alder occurs. It is seldom encountered far from damp alder-rich habitat.

1779       Hydriomena ruberata (Freyer, 1831)   RUDDY HIGHFLYER

A local species in Britain, more frequent in the north, the larva feeding on sallow (Salix spp.) species. In Dorset, the moth is distinctly local and at low density, occurring in sallow-rich wetland across the Poole Basin, but also colonising river valley habitat at the foot of the chalk downs in north Dorset: Iwerne Minster, on 20 May 1957, 19June 1958, 20 May 1959, 9 May 1966, 19 May 1967 (H Moore), Woolland, at MV light on 18 May 1999, 27 May 1999, 2 June 1999, 11 June 2001, two on 2 June 2003, 11 June 2003 (P Benham). The following singletons were encountered in coastal localities well away from typical habitat suggesting occasional dispersal: Seatown, 5 May 2008 (M Parsons), West Bexington, on 12 May 1997, 18 May 2004 (R Eden), Weymouth, on 9 June 2000 (Dr P Sterling), Scar Bank, 28 May 1932 (A Russell).

1781       Horisme vitalbata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   SMALL WAVED UMBER

A species limited to southern Britain, the larva feeding on traveller’s-joy (Clematis vitalba). In Dorset, the moth is common wherever the foodplant grows in woods, plantations and hedges, mostly on chalky soils. The peak of the second brood is, on average, nearly twice as large as that of the first brood.

1782       Horisme tersata [Denis & Schiffermller 1775]   FERN

A species confined to southern Britain, the larva feeding on traveller’s-joy (Clematis vitalba). In Dorset, the moth is frequent and shares the same habitat type and distribution as the Small Waved Umber₁₇₈₁, although the Fern tends to be at a slightly lower density.

1784       Melanthia procellata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   PRETTY CHALK CARPET

A species found across the southern half of Britain, the larva feeding on traveller’s-joy (Clematis vitalba). In Dorset, the moth is frequent, and is found in the same chalky, clematis-rich, habitat type as the Small Waved Umber₁₇₈₁ and the Fern₁₇₈₂. The flight time spans four months, and two brood cycles are suspected. The first cycle is a double brood with peaks in mid-June and mid-August. The second cycle is a single brood with a main peak in mid-July. The national norm is for a single brood between late June and early August.

1785       Pareulype berberata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   BARBERRY CARPET     RDB1

Resident colonies exist in Suffolk, Dorset and Wiltshire, plus a colony in Hampshire prior to 1972, and singletons in a few other counties historically, the larva feeding on barberry (Berberis vulgaris). The Barberry Carpet is protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981. It is illegal to collect or disturb it in any of its stages. Barberry is a rare and decreased native shrub, occurring singly in hedgerows, mainly on chalky soil. The plant harbours wheat rust, and, in the middle of the last century was discouraged by the Board of Agriculture, whence it was pulled up through fear of crop contamination. In Dorset, miraculously, the moth occurs at a single locality where there are just a handful of mature barberry bushes. Recent English Nature led initiatives have planted additional barberry at the site in the hope of strengthening the tiny population there. Historical records follow: Glanville’s Wootton, 26 May 1823 (J Dale), Blandford, larvae plentiful on barberry in a nursery garden in 1875 (W Blanchard), Iwerne Minster, at MV light on 27 August 1954, 5 May 1956, 16 May 1956, 1 June 1956 (H Moore), Tarrant Gunville, in 1966 (R Hillier).

1787       Rheumaptera hastata (Linnaeus, 1758)   ARGENT & SABLE     Notable/Nb

A local day-flying species in Britain, the larva feeding on birch (Betula spp.) in England and bog myrtle (Myrica gale) in Scotland. In Dorset, this fine moth was, until recently, confined to Stubhampton Bottom, a wooded calcareous valley where reasonable numbers of mature birch grow amidst plantation fir and spruce. Butterfly Conservation in partnership with the Forestry Commission and the land owner, removed several acres of woodland within the heart of the Argent and Sable colony in 1996 to create an open south-west facing downland habitat for butterflies; unfortunately the moth has not been observed at the site since, despite targeted searches for it. The species used to be recorded from birch-rich habitat to the south and east of Bere Regis, to the south of Puddletown, and in the far north-east of the county, but much of the birch was felled to make way for conifer plantation during the 1960s: Snipe Moor, by day on 11 June 1949 (A Lisney), Tout Hill, by day on 31 May 1937 (H Andrewes), Bere Wood, by day on 28 May 1966 (H Moore), Farnham, two by day on 21 May 1930, 22 May 1930, two on 23 May 1930, 27 May 1930, 6 June 1930 (H Andrewes). It is recommended that searches continue for this moth at Stubhampton Bottom.

1788       Rheumaptera cervinalis (Scopoli 1763)  SCARCE TISSUE     Notable/Nb

A local species in southern England and Wales, the larva feeding on barberry (Berberis vulgaris) and cultivated barberry (Berberis spp.). In Dorset, the few records of this species that exist fall within the period August to October, too late for the spring-flying Scarce Tissue, but coincident with the pre-hibernation flight period of the Tissue₁₇₉₀. In the absence of voucher specimens, all records have been incorporated within the account of the Tissue. This leaves the following old record: Christchurch, (Fassnidge).

1789       Rheumaptera undulata (Linnaeus, 1758)   SCALLOP SHELL

A local species over much of Britain, but absent from northern Scotland, the larva feeding on sallow (Salix spp.), aspen (Populus tremula) and bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus). In Dorset, this wonderfully-patterned moth is widespread, occurring most frequently in sallow-rich deciduous woodland, but it tends to be at very low density with no more than singletons seen on any given night. The following individual was trapped on the coast at a time of immigration: Portland Bird Observatory, at MV light on 10 July 1995 (M Cade).

1790       Triphosa dubitata (Linnaeus, 1758)   TISSUE

A local species confined to southern Britain, the larva feeding on buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) and alder buckthorn (Frangula alnus). In Dorset, the dearth of recent records indicates that the species is at low ebb. The only recent resident record is of a post-hibernated individual in buckthorn-rich habitat on Fontmell Down. Old records suggest that colonies existed amongst scrub on chalk downland sites inland and in alder buckthorn localities in the Poole Basin. Coastal records relate to dispersed individuals, as buckthorn species do not grow along the coastal belt. Records from these three locality categories follow:

Chalk downland (inland):

Iwerne Minster, at MV light on 6 August 1955, 4 August 1964, 27 August 1968 (H Moore), Fontmell Down, at MV light on 24 May 2004 (P Butter), Badbury Rings, 18 July 1934 (H Andrewes), Tarrant Gunville, at MV light on 2 August 1955 (R Hillier).

Old chalk scrub is an essential component of chalk grassland for many invertebrate species. However, improvement of chalk grassland since the Second World War has resulted in the removal of much of the scrub, including buckthorn. The small amounts that remain tend to be restricted to slopes too steep to plough, as at Fontmell Down. Many invertebrate species associated with this valuable habitat have declined dramatically, the Tissue amongst them.

Sandy soil:

Chamberlaynes, 8 August 1929, 20 May 1931, 25 May 1935, and Morden Bog, 26 May 1927 (H Andrewes), Norden, flying in passage inside Norden House on 23 April 1907, and Corfe Castle, at sallow bloom on 15 April 1886 and 2 May 1891 (Reverend E Bankes), Studland, at MV light on 8 October 1961 (S Coxey).

Localities where residual alder buckthorn stands still exist are few and far between but include Cranborne Common, Gore Heath, and heathland to the east of Sherford Bridge. Alder buckthorn scrub seems to be one of the first plant species to be removed by both conservation agencies, as part of heathland management, and the Forestry Commission, as part of forestry operations.

Coast:

Walditch, at MV on 9 August 2000 (M Parsons), West Bexington, at MV on 8 August 2003 (R Eden), Portland, on 18 October 1888 (C Dale), Church Ope Cove, at MV on 23 October 1978 (D Brown), Upwey, hibernating in cellar 23 October 1964 (Brigadier H Warry), Durdle Door, at MV on 23 August 1971 (D Brown), Scar Bank, at light on 9 September 1931, 13 August 1932, 26 August 1932, 9 April 1933, 11 August 1947, 29 September 1950 (A Russell).

1791       Philereme vetulata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]   BROWN SCALLOP

Found in south and south-east England, but very local elsewhere in England and Wales, the larva feeding on buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica). In Dorset, the moth is local, at low density, and occupies the same habitat types as the Tissue₁₇₉₀, and in addition, neutral grassland sites. On chalky soils the foodplant is buckthorn, on sandy soil, for example at Hurn, the foodplant is alder buckthorn (Frangula alnus), and on neutral soil both buckthorn species may be used. The following record was likely to have been a dispersed individual as a northerly airflow was established at the time of trapping: West Bexington, at MV on 28 July 1996 (R Eden).

1792       Philereme transversata (Hufnagel, 1767)   DARK UMBER

A species restricted to England and Wales, the larva feeding on buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica). In Dorset, the moth is local and at low density, and occupies similar habitats to the Brown Scallop₁₇₉₁. This species is fairly regularly recorded from just one site on sandy soil, Hurn. Here the species is associated with alder buckthorn (Frangula alnus) - see also Brown Scallop₁₇₉₁.

1793       Euphyia biangulata (Haworth, 1809)   CLOAKED CARPET     Notable/Nb

A very local species restricted to southern England and Wales, the larva feeding on chickweed and stitchwort (Stellaria spp.). In Dorset, the moth is local, at low density with singletons seen on any given night, and mainly restricted to damp tertiary clay soils on the periphery of the Poole Basin. It occurs most frequently where common chickweed (Stellaria media) grows on heavily fertilised arable, gardens and woodland rides.  It is also found sparingly where greater stitchwort (Stellaria holostea) grows on hedgebanks and in woods on sandy soils within the Poole Basin.  Localities where the moth recurs include Yellowham Wood, Bere Wood, Sares Wood, Shaggs, Trigon and Gaunts Common.

 1794       Euphyia unangulata (Haworth, 1809)   SHARP-ANGLED CARPET

A local species restricted to southern England and Wales, the larval foodplant is unknown, although it accepts chickweed and stitchwort (Stellaria spp.) in captivity. In Dorset, the moth is widespread and at low density, and most often associated with old deciduous woods and woodland edges, mainly on chalky and sandy soils. Just under one hundred moths have been trapped at Arne Wood, and greater stitchwort (Stellaria holostea), a plant that is well established at the site, may be a potential foodplant for the species in this and similar wooded localities. The Sharp-angled Carpet is roughly three times more numerous than the Cloaked Carpet₁₇₉₃, and although occasionally found in the same sites, it tends to prefer drier biotypes.