Batia lunaris

Wingspan 7-10 mm. This moth is tiny but colourful. It is very similar to B. lambdella in appearance although the latter is generally larger.

Generally occurs in woodland habitats and other well wooded areas.

The moth flies in July and August. It is mainly nocturnal in habits and is attracted to light.

The larvae of most Batia species feed under the bark of various trees, possibly on fungi or decaying wood.

This species is fairly frequent throughout most of England. In the Butterfly Conservation’s Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as common.

Fairly frequent but not common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = B (scarce resident or restricted distribution or regular migrant)