Small Blood-vein - Scopula imitaria

Wingspan 26-29 mm. Like the rather similar Blood-vein (Timandra griseata), this species has a cross-line which extends across all four wings when at rest, though the colour is generally less pink.

Waste ground, hedgerows and coastal sand-dunes.

The adults fly at night during July and August.

Feeding on Privet and a variety of low-growing plants, the caterpillars overwinter.

It is fairly common in the southern half of Britain but local further north. 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)