Description

Wingspan 12 to 20mm (E. cirsiana), 18 to 23mm (E. scutulana). These two species are very difficult to separate, so the photograph shows one or the other. The wings are marked with browns, black and a lavender blue and there is a large white patch near the centre of the hind edge of the fore-wing.

Habitat

Field edges, gardens, scrub, where thistles or Knapweed can be found, the larval food plants.

Status and distribution

Both species are common and well distributed throughout England, Scotland and Wales. Common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

May to July.