Phylum: Arthropoda - Class: Insecta - Order: Lepidoptera - Family: Hepialidae
Five of the approximately 500 species of the Hepialidae moths (Swift moths) occur in Great Britain and Ireland.
The Ghost Moth is the largest of the Swift Moths to be found in Britain and Ireland. The male and female are very different in colour: the male (picture below) has a white forewing, and the female (picture above) has a yellow forewing with orange markings.
The Ghost Moth lives in disturbed ground with rank weed growth both in urban and rural settings.
The forewing of the Ghost Moth ranges between 21 and 29mm (Male) and 21 and 35mm (Female)
This moth is both common and widespread throughout lowlands of Britain and Ireland.
The Ghost Moth is shortlived as its shortened proboscis prevents it from being able to feed. It over-winters twice in its larval form and pupates below ground.
The larval foodplants of the Ghost Moth include nettles, docks and grasses.
Studying butterflies and moths...
Fascinated by rivers, lakes and wild trout? Then you would really enjoy Pat O'Reilly's latest river-based thriller Dead Drift. All publisher profits and author royalties are being donated to support the Wild Trout Trust, helping communities to restore and protect wild trout and their habitats. Order your copy here...
Terms of use - Privacy policy - Disable cookies - External links policy