Basal Pyrale
Common NameBasal Pyrale
Scientific NameScoparia ambigualis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyScopariinae
Wingspan (mm)21
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, grasslands, gardens, heathland, urban areas
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsmosses, lichens
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on mosses and lichens, often within silken tubes. Pupation occurs in a cocoon constructed among the food source.
Identification TipsKey features include its overall greyish-brown mottling and the prominent dark basal streak on the forewings. Definitive identification from closely related *Scoparia* and *Eudonia* species often requires examination of genitalia.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, featuring a distinct dark streak or patch at the base along the leading edge. The hindwings are typically paler grey.
