White Plume Moth

Pterophorus pentadactyla (Linnaeus, 1758) is a plume moth in Pterophoridae. The UK Species Inventory treats Pterophorus tridactyla as a junior synonym. [1][4]

Adults are white and span approximately 26–34 mm. Each forewing divides into two narrow plumes and each hindwing into three; fine fringes give the divisions their feather-like appearance. [2][1]

The Catalan treatment records a Palearctic distribution through Europe and Asia Minor. British habitats include dry grassland, waste ground and gardens; hedgerows and woodland edges are occupied at Netherfield Lagoons in Nottinghamshire. [3][1][2]

Caterpillars survive the winter. In Britain the principal adult flight falls in June and July, with a second generation sometimes appearing in September. [1]

Larvae feed on bindweed, Convolvulus. [1]

Adults begin flying at dusk and remain active after sunset. [1]

The species was described from Sweden. Museum material examined in the Catalan review includes specimens from Vallvidrera dated 1922 and 1924 and records from both coastal wetlands and inland districts. [3]

Keep the enclosure closed and display it in indirect light, away from heat and damp conditions. Handle the frame by its edges and clean only its exterior according to the maker’s instructions.