Buff Arches - Habrosyne pyritoides

Wingspan 35 to 40 mm. The combination of smooth grey, white and russet-brown makes this delicately-marked moth one of the prettiest, especially when observed at close range.

Open woodland, young plantations, hedgerows and gardens.

Flying in July and August, it can be attracted to 'sugar', as well as to light.

The larvae, which are reddish brown with two or four creamy spots, feed on Bramble (Rubus).

It is fairly common in wooded areas in the southern half of Britain but absent from Scotland. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

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