Red Twin-spot Carpet - Xanthorhoe spadicearia

Wingspan 24-27 mm. It is rather similar to the Dark-barred Twin-spot Carpet and some specimens are very difficult to tell apart.

Gardens, woodland, hedgerows, downs, fens, moors and sand-dunes.

May to June and again in July and August in the south. In more northern parts there is only one brood in June and July.

The larvae feed on low-growing plants such as Knotgrass and Bedstraw.

Found fairly commonly throughout most of Britain. 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)