Twenty-plume Moth Alucita hexadactyla
Twenty-plume Moth Alucita hexadactyla
Pupa • Chorlton, G. Manchester • © Ben Smart

44.001 BF1288

Twenty-plume Moth Alucita hexadactyla

Linnaeus, 1758


Wingspan 14-16 mm.

The English name of this unusual little moth is something of a misnomer, as each wing is separated into 6 'plumes'. The scientific name is more accurate, meaning 'six-fingered'.

The only British member of its family, it is fairly common throughout, and can be found in the adult stage at almost any time of year.

The larva feeds on the leaves and buds of honeysuckle (Lonicera), and the moth is nocturnal and attracted to light.
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