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moth Mother Shipton Moths

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Mother Shipton Moth

Scientific name:  Callistege mi

Size:  Wingspan up to 35mm

Distribution:  Found in most parts of the UK.  More frequently in southern England

Months seen:  May to July

Habitat:  Hedgerows, wasteground, grassland and gardens

Food:  Nectar.  The larvae eat clovers, grasses and reeds

Special features:  Mother Shipton moths get their name from the pattern on their wings which is thought to resemble the legendary Yorkshire witch.  They are day-flying moths which prefer to fly very short distances.


The caterpillars are normally seen between June and September.  They are pale brown with a cream coloured stripe along each side.


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