Dingy Shell

This small, sandy-coloured moth is usually found in damp alder carr woodland, alder is the foodplant of the caterpillar. The undersides of the wings have faint brown bands and a cream/brown chequered margin. They usually rest with their wings closed.

Larvae are from late June to August. They then pupate on the ground where they overwinter.

Flight Times

It has one generation from late May to early August. The adults fly from dusk but can be seen during the day if disturbed from the foodplant.

Size and Family

• Family – Carpets, pugs and allies (Larentiinae)

• Small-sized

• Wingspan Range – 23-25mm

Conservation Status

• UK BAP: Not listed

• Local (only found in some areas)

Caterpillar Food Plants

The larvae feed on the leaves of alder (Alnus glutinosa).

Habitat

They live in damp woodland, fens and other marshy areas, including along watercourses.

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland

• It has a local distribution across most of Great Britain, the eastern coast of Ireland and the Channel Islands.