Shining Scoparia
Common NameShining Scoparia
Scientific NameScoparia ambigualis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyScopariinae
Wingspan (mm)21
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsblack, white, cream
HabitatWoodlands, heathlands, gardens, often near mosses and lichens
Geographic RangeEurope, including British Isles, parts of Asia
Host Plantsmosses, lichens
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on mosses and lichens, typically within silken tubes. Pupation occurs in a cocoon near the food source.
Identification TipsLook for the intricate black, white, and cream forewing pattern, including a prominent dark reniform stigma and a pale subterminal line. Close examination is often needed to distinguish from similar *Scoparia* species.
Description
A small moth with forewings displaying a complex, mottled pattern of black, white, and creamy-yellow patches, often with a distinct dark reniform stigma.
