Palpita vitrealis

Sometimes referred to as the Olive-tree Pearl or Jasmine moth, it is a migrant from southern Europe where it is widespread but numbers arriving to the UK fluctuate annually. Most often seen in the southern coastal counties. Wings are translucent white with a slight sheen and a yellowish-brown edge.

Flies at night and comes to light, occasionally found feeding on flowers such as Buddleia and Ivy.

Flight Season

Flies from June to early December but most commonly seen in the UK during late summer and autumn.

Size and Family

• Family: Crambidae
• Medium Sized
• Wingspan Range - 27-31mm

Conservation Status

• UK BAP: Not listed 
• Immigrant

Caterpillar Food Plants

As a migrant, there is no record of it having bred in the wild in the UK and no stage can survive our winters. Egg-laying has been observed in the UK on Garden Privet but on the continent, caterpillars feed on Jasmine (Jasminium) and olive (Olea).

Habitat

Can be found anywhere but primarily coastal areas.

Distribution

• Countries: England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland
• Mostly coastal areas in southern and central England, although has been seen in Scotland.