Yorkshire Status: Fairly common and widespread resident.

congelatella = "with frost" - a late-flying moth appearing with the first frosts.

This species is commonest on heaths and moors, where larvae feed on heather and bilberry. It will however utilise many other woody plants, particularly hawthorn and privet in lowland areas. It is under-recorded in the uplands, as few people trap on the moors in October and November, and most of our records come from gardens. Like many species flying in the colder months, females have vestigial wings and are flightless. The distinctive males are easy to identify and should not be mistaken for any other species.

Recorded in 65 (33%) of 200 10k Squares.
First Recorded in 1883.
Last Recorded in 2024.
Additional Stats