The Spectacle - Abrostola tripartita

Wingspan 27-30 mm. This moth derives its English name from the raised tufts of scales on the thorax, which resembles a pair of spectacles when viewed from the front.

Gardens, heathland, rough grassland, fens, woodland edges and waste ground.

It has one or two generations, flying between May and September, and is a regular visitor to light.

The larvae feed on Nettle and the species passes the winter as a pupa.

It is a fairly common species throughout Britain. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

Common in Leicestershire & Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = A (common and resident)