Lesser Pearl - Sitochroa verticalis.

Lesser Pearl - Sitochroa verticalis. A micro moth species from the family of Crambidae , subfamily Pyraustinae. The moth has a wingspan of about 32 mm. It has a resemblance to Ostrinia nubilalis but has subtle differences in the forewing and a more strongly marked underside. This moth can be found on the wing in June and July. They are attracted to light but are also readily disturbed by day. Its preferred habitat is grassy areas. The species’ life history is that the larvae feed on several plants such as creeping thistle, broom, and goosefoot. Distributed mainly in the southern half of England, Lesser Pearl - Sitochroa verticalis is resident but also a sporadic immigrant, reinforcing the population occasionally. and classified as local in the UK.

Tags: Lesser Pearl - Sitochroa verticalis.