The Common Swift (Hepialus lupulinus) is a species of moth in the Hepialidae family.
Description[]
This small moth is one of the most primitive macro moths found in Britain. The females are larger than the males, with a broader and plainer forewing. Both have a white bar running along the forewing, which often curves, and is sometimes dotted. The base colour ranges from dark to light brown. Some forms lack any white bars at all, and these are often light individuals. The abdomen oftens outlengths the forewings,
Male Common Swift - http://www.flickr.com/photos/qwertyqwertyqwerty/
espcially in males. The adults are on the wing from May through to July.
Status and Distribution[]
This species is widespread in Britain, and while often abundant in southern Britain, is scarcer further north, but can be found in the Hebrides. This species is quite scarce in Ireland.
Larva[]
This species feeds on the roots of various plants, including grasses, and where it is in large enough numbers, it can be a pest. The larva can be found from June till April.
Gallery[]
