Ghost swift

Hepialus humuli

Forewing is 21 mm. Male is very pale, creamy white. Female is a little larger and darker. Larva is also very pale white to grey-white with dark spots and red-brown head.

What habitats does it normally live in?

Found in downland, meadows and gardens. Widespread throughout northern and central Europe including Great Britain.

What does it feed upon?

Flies in June. Eggs laid in flight. Larvae feed on grasses and herbaceous plants, feeding below ground on roots. May take two years to reach pupatation stage, which occurs in May.

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