Early Moth - Theria primaria

Wingspan 32-37 mm. Like many other winter species, the females are almost wingless. The male is a brown moth usually with a darker spot on each wing.

Woodland margins and hedgerows.

This aptly-named species is to be found on the wing in January and February.

It feeds on Hawthorn and Blackthorn in the larval stage.

Fairly frequent in England, Wales, Ireland and the south of Scotland. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain 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).