May I ask about this little character, the only moth n the trap this morning after a much colder night? It has a look to me of Acleris cristana but it's completely the wrong time of the year for that isn't it?. Any help much appreciated as always. It's still in our greenhouse somewhere. Martin Wainwright, Thrupp, Oxon.
Hello Martin, yes to Acleris cristana. This is quite a long-lived species and hibernates through the winter, when it can be tempted out on warmer nights. Apart from the notably concave edge to the forewing, it has those large scale tufts in the centre (...and no, I don't know what use they serve!).
Hi Dave and belated thanks. I've always wanted to see this micro for real, cos in the Micro Bible, it looks so much as though a little lizard or eft is perching on its back. The scent scales idea sounds promising. I will continue to Google. All best and thanks again, M
Hello Martin, yes to Acleris cristana. This is quite a long-lived species and hibernates through the winter, when it can be tempted out on warmer nights. Apart from the notably concave edge to the forewing, it has those large scale tufts in the centre (...and no, I don't know what use they serve!).
ReplyDeleteMight they be scent scales?
ReplyDeleteOne use they certainly have is for lepidopterists to tell they're not hastiana (as long as they're not worn).
Andy.
Hi Dave and belated thanks. I've always wanted to see this micro for real, cos in the Micro Bible, it looks so much as though a little lizard or eft is perching on its back. The scent scales idea sounds promising. I will continue to Google. All best and thanks again, M
ReplyDelete