Cydalima perspectalis

A distinctive species which should be recognised without difficulty, although there is also a very dark brown form.

Associated with Box (Buxus).

As an introduced species it may occur at any time.

The moth is a pest species of box (Buxus), and is almost certainly an introduction with imported Buxus plants.

The first record for Britain seems to be from Kent in 2007 and in the Butterfly Conservation's Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as adventive.  The species is increasing in frequency and is now quite common in many parts of the country.

Previously uncommon but now quite frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland. The Whetstone record of 14th June 2017 was the first for VC55.