I caught this plume on the 10th and am having trouble getting it to species level, if indeed it can be done from a photograph. I think it's probably S. pterodactyla but haven't been able to rule out S. bipunctidactyla. Any thoughts?
Hi Nigel, I think I'd go for pterodactyla too but there is a way to be sure if you've still got the moth. Colin Hart's Plume book says: "There is a very thin line of white hairs along the costa of the first lobe which is diagnostic for this species and is best seen by viewing the edge of the wing against a black background".
Hi Dave, the moth was released before I read what you've quoted from CH's book. I've added another shot, but as I've never seen either of these species before can't decide if it clinches it or not!
The extra photo doesn't seem to help, I'm afraid. Both species are possibilities where you are so it looks as though you'll have to await the visit of another one...
Hi Nigel, I think I'd go for pterodactyla too but there is a way to be sure if you've still got the moth. Colin Hart's Plume book says: "There is a very thin line of white hairs along the costa of the first lobe which is diagnostic for this species and is best seen by viewing the edge of the wing against a black background".
ReplyDeleteHi Dave, the moth was released before I read what you've quoted from CH's book. I've added another shot, but as I've never seen either of these species before can't decide if it clinches it or not!
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Nigel
The extra photo doesn't seem to help, I'm afraid. Both species are possibilities where you are so it looks as though you'll have to await the visit of another one...
ReplyDeleteHi Dave, thanks for your help and advice. Now I know what to look out for I'll keep the black paper handy.
ReplyDeleteNigel