Morley’s Final Catalogue: By no means uncommon. Ipswich and Monks Soham at light in June (Mly); Nacton in July 1902 (Gibbs); Waldringfield (EMM. 1904, 80); Glemham Magna (Bloomfield); Flixton (Ctw). Brandon (Whe).

Recent Status: Locally common across the county.

Life Style: A single brooded species that flies during summer with a peak during July. It flies a little later in the season than Scoparia ambigualis which worn examples can resemble. The larvae feed on mosses and plant detritus. They overwinter and pupate after reaching maturity during spring.

Identification: The Scopariinae (Scoparia and Eudonia) can be difficult to identify. Some species are easier than others. Before considering wing markings it is important to note the size, the shape when at rest and the forewing shape. All forewing markings can be important but of particular importance are the white sub-terminal markings, the post median line and the stigmata. They possess orbicular, claviform and reniform stigmata. Worn individuals might not be identified except by genitalia dissection.
Scoparia basistrigalis is a large species with broad rounded forewings and is strongly marked. The stigmata are brown with black borders. The pre and post median lines are strong, dentate and bordered black on the median sides. There is a strong black basal mark (hence basistrigalis). The cilia are chequered and there are discrete black marks along the termen. The sub-terminal line does not form a distinct pattern.

Recorded in 38 (66%) of 58 10k Squares. First Recorded in 1902. Last Recorded in 2023. Additional Stats

Exit Recorder