Small Phoenix - Ecliptopera silaceata

Wingspan 23-27 mm. There are two main forms - one where the dark central band across the forewing is broken by two brown and white lines on wing veins and then a typical form in which the band is unbroken. Both have a distinctive series of dark wedge shaped markings beyond the central band.

Inhabits a range of woodland and open habitats.

A double-brooded species, flying in spring from May to July and then again in August and September, except in the north where there is just one generation.

The main larval foodplants are Willowherbs.

Quite common in England and Wales but less so in Scotland and Ireland. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = A (common and resident)