Mother Of Pearl - Patania ruralis.

Mother Of Pearl - Patania ruralis. A micro moth species from the family of Crambidae , subfamily Spilomelinae. The moth has a wingspan of 26 mm to 40mm. It is one of the largest of Britain's so-called 'micro-moths'; in fact, it is more significant than many of the 'macro-moths’. As the English name suggests, the moth rests with all four wings on display, which show a colourful rainbow-like lustre in certain lighting conditions. Its preferred habitat is rural gardens, waste ground and rough pastures, often around Nettle beds. This moth is on the wing in July and August. The adults fly from dusk onwards and are often attracted to light. The species’ life history is Larval feeding on Nettle in a rolled-up leaf. It is widespread in most of Britain. The species is classified as common in the UK.

Tags: Mother Of Pearl - Patania ruralis.