Common Plume

Emmelina monodactyla

Description

Wingspan 18 - 27mm. Pale buff with a brown central spot on the fore-wing. The fore-wings are split into three plumes about half way along but the wings are normally held in a rolled-up position, making this difficult to see. The hind legs have pairs of spurs, where one is longer than the other. The abdomen is pale buff along the central, dorsal line with darker streaks and is bordered with brown.   

Habitat

Woodland edge and hedgerows. The larvae feed on bindweeds.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread throughout Britain, though less common in Scotland. Common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

Can be seen in all months.