Be STM oe HARVARD UNIVERSITY e Library of the Museum of Comparative Zoology - 3 Re ie a, ne aa a bay i rth) Wi a ; ith oy ai J i ; Yay & ae me, Entomologist’s hecord AND JOURNAL OF VARIATION EDITED BY J. M. CHALMERS HUNT, F.R.E:S. Vol. 89 1977 Price £6.50 net. pp Py Pawo h & lil CONTENTS 1977 Aberdeenshire and Kincardineshire. Appendix to Parts 1 and 2 R. M. Palmer, 239 Aberdeenshire and Kincardineshire Lepidoptera. The Origin and Distribution of R. M. Palmer and M. R. Young, 285 Acanthophila alacella (Zeller) in Kent R. Fairclough 283 Acentria nivea (Olivier) at Light P. J. Johnson, 11 (Acherontia atropos L.) A Note on Breeding the Death’s Head Hawk- moth H. L. O’Heffernan, 314 Acherontia atropos L. An _ early appearance of J. L. Messenger, 224 Acherontia atropos L. and _ other Immigrants in Warwickshire in 1976 A. F. J. Gardner, 84 (Acherontia atropos L.) A Sweet Adventure. The Death’s Head Hawkmoth C. G. M. de Worms, 344 Acherontia atropos L., Macroglossum stellatarum (L.) and Eucosma pupillana (Clerck) in Staffordshire R. G. Warren, 41 Acleris abietana (Huebner) in Aber- deenshire P. Smith and M. R. Young, 53 (Acronicta psi L.) or Dark Dagger (A. tridens D. & S.). Curious Behaviour of the Grey Dagger R. G. Warren, 310 (Aegeria andrenaeformis Waspeyres) The Scarcity of the Orange- tailed Clearwing M. R. Burton, 192 Aegeria vespiformis L. and Inachis fore. dn MaVvaitrap “Je. AL C: Greenwood, 11 (Agrotis ripae Hbn.) in London. The Sand Dart D. Agassiz, 153 Agrius convolvuli (L.) and Enargia paleacea (Esper) in Breconshire in 1976 N. Parker, 56 Agrius convolvuli (L.) and Eumichtis lichenea (Hbn.) in Eastbourne in 1976 M. Hadley, 34 (Agrius. convolvuli LL.) Autumn- Winter 1976-77. Rearing the Convolvulus Hawkmoth R. A. Cramp, 269 Agrius convolvuli L. in 1976 as Recorded from Peacehaven, Sus- oe The Occurrence of C. Pratt, Agrius convolvuli (L.) in Yorkshire in 1976 J. Briggs, 56 Agonopteryx capriolella Zeller (Lep.: Oecophoridae) and Mompha lac- tella Steph. Lep.: Momphidae) in Kent J. M. Chalmers-Hunt, 348 Agonum gracilipes Dupt. (Col.: Cara- bidae) in Sussex, and its Deletion from “the Anishi\iMist.) As A. Allen, 343 Agriopis marginaria Fab. f. furcata Moseley H. E. Chipperfield, 212 Agromyzidae (Diptera). Records of some Scottish K. P. Bland, 275 Agrotis ipsilon Hufnagel in March A. E. C. Adams, 204 Albin. Evidence concerning the Death of Eleazar R. S. Wilkinson, 221 Aloeides (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) No. 2. Further Notes on Species of the Genus G. E. Tite and GiG, 6.i Dickson209 Aloeides thyra (L.) (Lep., Lycaenidae) with special Reference to the Function of the retractable tubercles and with Additional Notes on the General Biology of the Species. A Study of the Myrmecophalous Behaviour of the Immature Stages of A. J. M. meee and C. G. C. Dickson, 25 Ancylomis oblitella Z. in Gloucester- shire J. Newton, 88 Andorra— A _ Visit in July 1976 JO aTA. Ge: Greenwood. (DAVE: Greenwood and P. J. L. Roche, 27h Anisolabis kudagae Burr (Dermaptera Carcinophoridae) and a Descrip- tion of a New Species of Aniso- labis from Srilanka. The Descrip- tion of A. Brindle, 145 Apatura iris L.— A Second Brood Specimen C. J. Luckens, 2 (Apatura iris Linn.) in the Isle of Wight. The Status of the Purple Emperor D. W. H. ffennell, 341 Apatura iris L. The Overwintering of the Larva of H. G. Short, 62 Apomyelois bistriatella (neophanes Durrant 1915) (Lep.: Pyralidae) in Wales A. N. B. Simpson, 159 (A poria crataegi L.) in Scotland. Notes on an Introduced Colony of the Sat Veined White R. Elliott, A Argiolus in West Herts. and in Cumbria C. F. Cowan, 121 (Argynnis lathonia L.) at Bourne- mouth. The Queen of Spain Fritillary A. H. Dobson, 78 iv Atomaria consanguinea (Col.: Crypto- phagidae). Two Further Records from Herts. including the Earliest Known Find A. A. Allen, 169 — Antigastra catalaunalis (Dupont) in North Kent P. J. Jewess, 10 Auctorum. A Plea for C. F. Cowan, 67 Aurelian Society. The Great Cornhill Fire and the Demise of the first R. S. Wilkinson, 250 Automobile. A case Against the C. Pratt, 330 Avian Predation of Butterflies — Again A. M. Shapiro, 293 Beirne — A little Known Error S. E. Whitebread, 12 Berosus spinosus Ster. (Col.: Hydro- philidae) New to West Kent A. A. Allen, 188 Bird Deterrent. An Effective J. M. Chalmers-Hunt, 282 Biston betularia Linn. ab. carbonaria Jordan and Other Lepidoptera in Ireland in 1976 and 1977 K. G. M. Bond, 328 Blastobasis decolorella Wollaston (Lep.: Blastobasidae) Unusual Feeding of P. A. Sokoloff, 253 British Butterflies in 1976. Observa- tions on C. J. Luckens Part, 15).170:Party2¢ 1236 Buddleia davidii. Insect fauna of D. F. Owen, 344 Caernarvonshire. Some less Common Moths Taken in J. C. A. Clark, 312 Callicera aenea Fabricius (Diptera: Syrphidae) in North Hampshire S. R. Miles, 271 Calophasia lunula (Hufn.) and Other Interesting Moths at Folkestone S. E. Whitebread, 11 Camberwell Beauty after Hibernation in Worcestershire, A J. E. Green, 155 Camberwell Beauty and Clifden Non- pareil in Scotland A. Buckham 54 Camberwell Beauty in August- September 1977 in Kent E. Chandler, 348 Camberwell Beauty in August- September 1977 in Middlesex. The B. Goater, 348 Camberwell Beauty in Somerset in 1977. The B. W. Moore, 340 Camberwell Beauty in Warwickshire “a April 1977. The E. A. Hoare, 5 Camberwell Beauty in Westmorland in April 1977. The J. Heath, 155 Camberwell Beauty in Worcestershire after Hibernation. A Further Record of J. E. Green, 316 Camberwell Beauty in Yorkshire in 1977. The D. W. Kydd, 348 Caradrina ambigua D. & S. in the Eastbourne Area. Early Emer- gence and Abundance of Jd. Hadley, 264 (Catocala fraxini) in Norfolk. The Clifden Nonpareil E. A. Ellis, 323 Catocala fraxini in Northumberland D. A. Sheppard, 112 Clepsis rurinana (L.) (=semialbana (Guenee)) in Scotland D. Agassiz, 151 Clifden Nonpareil in Yorkshire. The B. Spence, 10 Coccinella septempunctata. Abnormal Abundance of J. M. Chalmers- Hunt, 107 Coenonympha thyrsis Freyer. Notes ~ Concerning the Taxonomic status ofl 7G. "Coursis, Coleophora badiipennella (Duponchel) in S. England and N. Switzerland. Some Comparative observations ° between Populations S. E. White- bread, 21 Coleophora trigeminella Fuchs and C. coracipennella (Hbn.) S. E. Whitebread, 16 Coleoptera from Rothamstead Light Traps at Monks Wood National Reserve, Cambridgeshire during 1976_R:. C. Welch 95 Coleas croceus Fourcr. in Eastbourne M. Hadley, 276 (Colias hyale L.) (?) Resting on the Sea. A Pale Clouded Yellow F. Pollard, 13 Collecting Lepidoptera in Britain during 1976 C. G. M. de Worms, 213, 332 Collecting in the Hot Summer, 1976 D. G. C. Brown, 113 Colocasia coryli L. f. melanotica Haverkampf in Oxfordshire G. A. Ford, 12 Commercial Entomology — or is One Man’s Rarity Another’s Liveli- hood? B. O. C. Gardner, 5, 31 Convolvulus Hawk in Hants. The D. A. Leppard, 159 Corfu Butterflies in Spring 1977 C. G. Lipscomb, 326 Corcinia cribraria L. ssp. arenaria Lempke (Lep.: Arctiidae) in Kent. Beginner’s Luck G. N. Burton, 322 Cosmopteryx rurella (Fabricius) (Lep. Momphidae) in Ireland J. M. Chalmers-Hunt, 276 Cucullia verbasci L. (Mullein Moth) on Buddleia davidii. Larvae of F. B. S. Antram, 235 Cyaniris semiargus Rott. from Greece. sexually Aberrant J. G. Coutsis, 35 Cyclophora pupillaria Hbn. and Litho- phane leautieri Boisd. in North West Surrey K. G. W. Evans, 83 (Cyclophora pupillaria WHibn.) and other interesting Moths in Hants. in 1976.C...A. Dixon,,.12 —do— —do— Correction, 107 Cyrnus insolutus McLachlan (Trichop- tera: Polycentropodidae). Lough Derrygeeha, Co. Clare. A New Keaeation for . J. -P:-.O’Connor, 309 Deilephila livornica L. on the Isle of Canna J. L. Campbell, 255 Dianthoecia compta D. & S. (Lep.: Hadenidae) in Northamptonshire S. J. Patel, 298 Diataraxia oleracea L. in January J. A. C. Greenwood, 107 Dordogne, France. Butterflies in the Department of H. J. Belsey, 47 Dover. A Note from G. H. Youden, 345 Dutfield’s New and Complete Natural History of English Moths and Butterflies. New Data Concerning James R. S. Wilkinson, 272 Dypterygia scabriuscula L. (Lep.: Noctuidae) in Hilton, Derbyshire A. W. Speed, 283 Early Migrant and a New Moth Trap Predator. An L. W. Siggs, 169 East African Lepidoptera — XIV. The Genetics of D. G. Sevastopulo, 335 Eastbourne (Excluding Butterflies). The Macrolepidoptera of M. Hadley, 36 Ectoedemia subbimacullella UHaw. (Lep.: Nepticulidae) in Kent. Abundance of E. S. Bradford, 340 (Enargia ypsilon D. & S.) in Ireland. The Dingy Shears D. N. Dowling, 83 Epiblema grandaevana (L. & Z.) in Suffolk L. Price, 18 Erebia in the French Massif Central. Further Notes on G. N. Burton, 205 Erebia_ serotina Descrimon & de Lisse 1953, a Possible Hibrid M. J. Perceval, 19 Eriopygodes imbicilla (Fabr.) (Lep.: Noctuidae), a Redsicovered Bri- tish Species S. E. Whitebread, 13 Eriopygodes imbicilla Fabr. (Lep.: Noctuidae). Curtis and Wood on R. F. Bretherton, 125 Etainia sericopeza (Zeller 1839) (Lep.: Nepticulidae) Confirmed as a British Species A. M. Emmet and te) a Jounson, 257 vi Eublemma parva Hbn. (Purple Marbled) in Devon G. S. Wollatt, 126 Eublemma parva Hbn. (Small Marbled) at Weston-super-Mare in Early March C. S. H. Blath- wayt, 126 Eucosma metzneriana Treitschke (Lep.: Tortricidae), A Species New to the British List, R. J. Revell, 329 Eudemis porphyrea (Huebner) New to Kent J. M. Chalmers-Hunt, 159 Eumichtis lichenea WHbn. on _ the North Kent Coast J. Platts, 325 Eupithecia phoeniceata (Rambur), Etainea decentella (H.-S.), Esperia olivella (Fab.), Homeosoma nebu- lella (D. & S8S.), Bucculatrix thoracella (Thnbg.) and other Notable Moths in the Winchester district D. H. Sterling, 315 (Eupithecia pusillella D. & S.= sobrinata Hbn.). Foodplant of the Juniper Pug R. G. Chattelain, 347 (Euplagia quadripunctella Hbn.). The Jersey Tiger E. P. Wiltshire, 122 Eurois occulta L. in North East Surrey P. M. Stirling, 283 Europe During 1976. Two Visits to C. G. M. de Worms, 108 Eurrhypara perlucidalis | Wuebner (Lep.: Pyralidae). A Note on J. M. Chalmers-Hunt, 338 Eurrhypara perlucidalis | Wuebner (Lep.: Pyralidae) in Lincornshire _R. F. Bretherton, 338 Eurrhypara perlucidalis (Hbn.) from Kent. A Second Record of P. J. Jewess, 264 Evergestis extimalis Scop. in S.E. London A. A. Allen, 86 Formica lugubris Zetterstedt (Hymen- optera: Formicidae) in Ireland. Inter-nest battles of J. Breen, 296 Frass as an Acceptable Pabulum for Leaf Mining Larvae P. J. John- son, 15 Geomyza breviseta Cz. and G. venusta Mg. (Dipt.: Opomyzidae) in West Kent, the latter confirmed as British A. A. Allen, 222 Gonopteryx cleopatra L. (Lep.: Pieridae) from Malta. A remark- able «Aberration «of... G. Howarth, 72 Green Islands of the Nepticulidae P. A. Sokoloff, 23 Greece. Two Important Butterfly Records from J. G. Coutsis, 315 Greece, June-July 1976. Butterflies in Northern J. and M. Dacie, P. Grammaticos, 265 Hampshire Jottings R. Dickson, 75 vi (Harpyia bicuspis Borkhausen), A Rare Variety of the Alder Kitten Moth H. C. J. Godfrey, 82 Hazards of Moth Hunting. The M. Hadley, 222 (Helicoverpa armigera Hb.) in Dorset in 1976. The Scarce Bordered Straw C. Cattell, 18 Helina protuberans Zett. (Dipt.: Muscidae) New to Kent and S.E. England A. A. Allen, 191 Heliothis armigera Hbn. (Scarce Bordered Straw) A. F. J. Gardner, 74 Heliothis peltigera D. & S. (Bordered Straw) in March R. Fairclough, 126 (Hemaris fuciformis L.) A Second Generation of the Broad Bor- dered Bee Hawkmoth J. C. A. Craik, 188 Hemaris fuciformis L. (Broad Bor- dered Bee Hawkmoth) A Second Brood in Suffolk in 1976 H. E. Chipperfield, 242 (Hemaris fuciformis L.) in the New Forest. The Continuing Spread of the Broad Bordered Bee Hawkmoth L. W. Siggs, 304 Henning’s Entomological Diaries. The Location® of ° Francis’ RR! S. Wilkinson, 81 Hepialus lupulinus Linnaeus. Ova of the Common Swift Moth G. N. Burton, 347 Heterographis oblitella Z. Plentiful in S.E. London 1976 A. A. Allen, 66 Highlands, 1977. April in the P. M. Stirling, 320 Hilton, Derbyshire 1970-1976, and a Day in Devon. Observations on Butterflies at A. W. Speed, 205 Hummingbird Hawkmoth in East- bourne. The M. Parsons, 83 Hummingbird Hawkmoth in February 1977 F. H. N. Smith, 78 Hyles gallii Rott. and Macroglossum stellatarum L. in Lancashire J. J. Whiteside, 283 Hyles lineata livornica Esper (Striped Hawkmoth) and Abraxas silvata Scopoli (Clouded Magpie) on the Isle of Wight P. J. Cramp, 140 Hymenia recurvalis (Fabr.) and other Lepidoptera at Swanage, October 1976 P. M. Stirling, 199 Hypenodes turfosalis (Wocke) (Lep.: Noctuidae) in Kent. The Marsh Oblique-barred J. M. Chalmers- Hunt, 256 Immigrant and other Lepidoptera in West Sussex in 1976 R. R. Pickering, 20 Immigrant Species of Lepidoptera at the Light Trap in West Surrey in 1976 R. F. Bretherton, 186 Inachis io (L.) ?. A Second Brood of R. Revels, 69 Infurcatinea argentimaculella Stainton (Lep.: Tineidae) in Kent E. S. Bradford, 194 Infurcatinea argentimaculella Staint. (Lep.: Tineidae) in Kent. A further Record of E. S. Bradford, 342 Ireland. Lepidoptera in the South of D. Agassiz, 73 Isle of Wight in June 1976. A few Days on the G. Summers, 3 (Lampides boeticus L.) in Northamp- tonshire in 1976. The Long-tailed Blue J. H. Payne, 10 Laothoe populi in S. Devon in 1976 H. L. O’Heffernan, 41 Lasiocampa quercus ssp. _ callunae Palmer (Northern Eggar) attrac- ce by citronella? J. L. Campbell, Leaf-mining Lepidoptera. The Influ- ence of the Hot Summer of 1976 on A. M. Emmet, 123 Letters to the Editor: R. A. Bell, 337 J. Platts, 336 R. Skipworth, 337 R. Smith, 336 NUE Purner, 252 (Leucochlaena oditis Hiibn. (hispida Geyer)) in Sussex in 1976. The peer Gothic R. R. Pickering, Limnephilus hirsutus Pic. (Trichop- tera: Limnephilidae) in Kent T. W. Harman, 316 Lithophane leautieri Boisd. at Woking C. G. M. de Worms, 13 Lithophane leautieri Boisd. Further Records from East Sussex C. Prati 153 (Lithophane leautieri Boisd.) in East Sussex. Blair’s Shoulderknot A. E. CS Adams 46 Lithophane leautieri (Boisd.) in Win- chester D. H. Sterling, 23 Lozopera beatricella Walsingham in Derbyshire and Yorkshire in 1976 F. Harrison, 208 Lozopera beatricella Wals. New to the London Area A. A. Allen, 63 Luperina_ nickerlii gueneei Doubleday in Britain. The History and ra Status of H. N. Michaelis, Lycaenid Pupae that mimic Anthro- bor Heads D. G. Sevastopulo, Lysandra coridon (Poda) ab. fowleri South. Further Notes on Breed- ing R. Revels, 45 Lysandra coridon (Poda). Breeding a Second Brood of R. Revels, 74 Lytta versicatoria L. (Col.: Meloidae) in Britain. Some Remarks on A. A. Allen, 345 Lytta versicatoria L. (Col.: Meloidae). The Spanish Fly or Blister Beetle J. M. Chalmers-Hunt, 198 Macroglossum stellatarum WL. and Agrius convolvuli L. in S. Devon in 1976 H. L. O’Heffernan, 88 Macroglossum stellatarum L. at Wimbledon. An Early March N. D. Riley, 126 Macroglossum stellatarum Linn. March D. A. Leppard, 126 Macroglossum stellatarum (L.). Spo- doptera exigua (Hbn.), Ewuxois occulta (L.) and Lithomoia soli- daginis (Hbn.) in South Westmor- land in 1976 J. Briggs, 17 Macrolepidoptera taken at light at Ashurst, Hampshire from July to December 1976. Some Less Com- mon J. C. A. Craik, 188 Majorca — Supplement. Butterflies of ie. nerceval, 158 Malaysia, January and February 1976. Collecting in C. G. M. de Worms, 135 Mayo. Lepidoptera in Co. J. M. Chalmers-Hunt, 347 (Melitia cinxia L.) in Gloucestershire. The Glanville Fritillary J. E. Green, 331 Metasyrphus nielseni D. & L. (Dipt.: Syrphidae) in the Cornish Isles M. C. D. Speight, 154 Mercury Vapour Light Records for 1976, New Forest L. W. Siggs, 174 . Microthrix similella (Zinc.). An unusual Locality for P. J. Jewess, 314 Migrant Lepidoptera in Britain in Early March J. M. Chalmers- Hunt, 125 Migrant Lepidoptera in Cornwall in August 1976 B. Elliott, 39 Migrant Lepidoptera in Hampshire in 1976 A. D. Torlesse, 53 Migrant Lepidoptera in Herefordshire in 1976 M. W. Harper, 44 Migrant Lepidoptera in Lincolnshire in 1976 R. E. M. Pilcher, 54 Migrant Lepidoptera in South Cum- bria in 1976. Some Records of NE) .Birkett, "152 Vii Migrant Lepidoptera in the Midlands in 1976 A. W. Speed, 46 Migrant Lepidoptera in 1976 A. G. Long, 10 Migrants in Hampshire. D. W. A. ffennell, 126 (Mimas tiliae L.): Delayed Emer- gence. The Lime Hawk K. R. Crawshaw, 86 Monochroa_ horningi (Staudinger) (Lep.: Gelechiidae) in Hampshire D. W. H. ffennell, 105 (Mormo maura L.) in Essex. Large oraue of the Old Lady J. Turner, March Moths in Suffolk in 1976. Some unusual H. E. Chipperfield, 82 M.V. Records for 1976 G. H. Dixon, 86 Mycetophila strigatoides (Landrock). An Overlooked British Fungus Gnat (Dipt.: | Mycetophilidae) PP... I. ¥Ghandlers 323 New Palaearctic Butterflies L. G. Higgins, 189 Nola albula (D. & S.) in Eastbourne M. Hadley, 42 Norfolk and Guernsey. A Note from TANS De Peet, 342 Northamptonshire in 1976. A Note on some Butterflies seen in J. H. Payne, 83 Notodonta anceps Esp. (Great Promi- nent) in the New Forest. Melanic A. F. J. Gardner, 67 Nudaurelia zambesina Wilk. X N. said Ob. A _ Possible Natural Hybrid between D. G. Sevas- topulo, 288 Nudaurelia zambesina Wik. X N. said Ob. A _ Possible Natural Hybrid of D. G. Sevastopulo, 42 Nymphalis antiopa in November D> C. G. Brown, 54 (Nymphalis antiopa L.) in 1977, and some additional Records for 1976. Post-hibernation appearance of the Camberwell Beauty J. M. Chalmers-Hunt, 248 (Nyphalis antiopa L.). The 1976 Invasion of the Camberwell Beauty J. M. Chalmers-Hunt, 89 Nymphalis io L. Second Brood of CG. CA Lipscomb, VS Nymphalis polychloros L. in Folke- ' stone B. C. S. Warren, 348 Nymphalis polychloros L. in N.W. Kent, 1975 A. A. Allen, 316 (Nymphalis_ polychloros L.). The Large Tortoiseshell E. P. Wilt- shire, 151 viii Observations in 1976 A. J. Showler, 85 Odontaeus armiger Scop. (Col: Scarabidae) in Kent 7. W. Harman, 231 Oecetis notata (Rambur) (Trichop- tera: Leptoceridae) from South- west Wales. A Record of R. A. Jenkins, 52 Oeciacus hirundinis in Norfolk —a correction D. R. Nash, 276 Oeciacus hirundinis Jenyns (Hemip- tera-Heteroptera) in Somerset H. C. J. Godfray, 122 Oldest Lepidopterous specimen in America R. S. Wilkinson, 20 Oncocera obductella (Zeller) in Kent P. J. Jewess, 78 Opetia nigra Mg. (Diptera: Platy- pezidae) and the Capture of a Female. Swarming J. McLean, 148 Otiorhynchus ligneus Ol. (Col: Cuculionidae) in plenty under a Street Lamp, etc. A. A. Allen, 340 Oxycera trililiata CL.) (Diptera) New to Cumbria C. F. Cowan, 177 Painted Lady in Hampshire in Early March 1977 J. A. Pleasant, 127 Painted Lady in South Wales in March 1977. The J. P. Sankey- Barker, 127 Pammene luedersiana (Sorhagen). A Third British Specimen of E. C. Pelham-Clinton, 328 (Panolis flammea D. & S.) in East- bourne in 1977. The Pine Beauty M. Hadley, 187 Paramesia gnomana (Clerck) (Lep.: Tortricidae) Confirmed as a British Species H. C. J. Godfray, 274 (Pararge aegeria L.) in Madeira. The Speckled Wood L. G. Higgins, 22 Pararge megaera L. in West York- Shite: Wall Butterfly A. G. Long, Parectopa ononidis Zell. in S.E. London A. A. Allen, 176 (Parascotia fuliginaria L.) in East Kent. The Waved Black T. W. Harman, 284 Parocystola acroxanthis (Meyrick) (Lep.: Oecophoridae) A. A. Allen Jun., 14 Pediacus’ depressus (Herbst 1797) (Col.: Cuculiidae) New to Scot- land J. Cooter, 339 Phasis thero (L.) Group (Lepidoptera Lycaenidae) from the Roggerveld Escarpment. A New Species of C.tG NCH Dickson3t7 Phoridae (Diptera) including two species of Megaselia Rondani New to Science. Notes on some British K. G. V. Smith, 161 Photedes extrema Hbn. Concolorous (Lep.: Noctuidae) in Kent T. W. Harman, 252 Phthorimaea_ operculella (Zell) in Kent J. Roche, 83 Phycitinae (Lep.: Pyralidae) in Essex G. S. Robinson, 84 Phyllonorycter sagitella (Bjerkander 1790) =tremulae Zeller 1846 (Lep.: Gracillariidae). A Species New to Britain L. Price, 106 Phyllotreta vittata F. (=sinuata auct. Brit. (Col.: Chysomelidae). A recent occurrence of A. A. Allen, 332 Pieriinae Mystery. The Great H. Lee, 284 Pieris rapae L. and Vanessa atalanta L. Late Appearance of N. A. Watkins, 53 Pincushion Rises Again. The R. S. Wilkinson, 254 Plusia gamma L. and Nomophora noctuella D. & S. in South Devon in 1976 H. L. O’Heffernan, 35 Poecilmitis Butler (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) from Namaqualand, Cape, South Africa. New Species of W. H. Henning, 25 Polydrusus sericeus Schall. (Col.: Curculionidae) in Sussex A. A. Allen, 182 Polygonia c-album (L.) f. hutchinsoni Robson. An unusual P. L. Broom, 35 Polygonia c-album (L.). The Poly-— phagous Habits of P. J. Baker, 156 Pseudochazara graeca (Staudinger 1870) (Lep.: Satyridae) from Greece. A New Subspecies of J. Brown, 68 Psychomyiid Larvae (Trichoptera) in South West Wales. Notes on the pet butiog of R. A. Jenkins, Pug Moths in the Isle of Wight in 1976 T. D. Fearnehough, 150 Purple Emperors and other Butterflies on Bookham Common, Surrey, in 1976 C. G. M. de Worms, 88 (Pyrgus malvae L.) on the Isle of Sheppey, Kent. The Grizzled Skipper G. N. Burton, 140 Pyronia tithonus L. ab. albidus Cockerell in the Isle of Wight T. D. Fearnehough, 276 Wyronia tithonus L.) Notes on. breeding ab. excessa Tutt of The: Gatekeeper R. Revels, 45 Rhodometra sacraria L. (Vestal) and Eublemma ostrina Hbn. (Purple Marbled) in Oxfordshire D. F. Owen, 126 (Scoliopteryx libatrix L.) Hibernating en masse. The Herald H.C. J. Godfray, 112 Scotopteryx chenopodiata (L.) (Shaded Broad Bar) in Sussex. A Bilateral Gynandromorph of R. M. Craske, 343 Scythris fletcherella Meyrick in Kent Ppiocne, 222 Sesiid Larvae. Artificial Chambers for Wood-associated C. Pratt, 333 Sicily. October in G. Summers, 18 Silpha carinata Herbst (Col:. Silphi- dae) confirmed as a _ British Breeding Species D. R. Nash, 305 Small Tortoiseshell in the Tyrol in December. A A. J. M. Heselden, 88 South Ronaldsay, Orkney. Lepidoptera from K. P. Bland, 70 Spain — May-June 1976. Central and Northern H. G. Phelps, 299 St. Davids, Pembroke, July 1977. Remarkable Numbers of Moths apie near Cc. G...M.\ de Worms, 313 Stictopera pernigra Legrand: a Little Known Noctuid from The Seychelles C. G. M. de Worms, 157 Stigmella carpinella (Heinemann 1862) (Lep.: Nepticulidae): A Species New to Britain A. M. Emmet, Stigmella repentella (Wolff 1955) (Lep.: Nepticulidae): A Species nea to Britain A. M. Emmet, 7 Stigmella speciosa (Frey) and 5S. aceris (Frey) (Lep. Nepticulidae). The Status in Britain of A. M. Emmet, 244 Strange Visitors to a Suburban Garden M. J. Sterling, 141 Strathclyde Region. Early Insect Activity in J. Cooter, 120 Strymonidia w-album Knoch in Hamp- shire C. J. Luckens, 149 Symbiotes latus Redt. (Col.: Endo- mychidae) in East and West Kent A. A. Allen, 187 (Thecla quercus L.). Observations on the Pupal Stage of the Purple Hairstreak J. Mitchell, 346 Thymelicus lineola Ochs. in East- bourne. The Presence of M. | Hadley, 298 Townend Glover’s Library and Manu- scripts R. §. Wilkinson, 55 Treshnish Isles G. Summers, 173 ix Trichopteryx polycommata D. & S. in Eastbourne M. Hadley, 308 (Trigonophora flammea Esp.) in Bri- tain. The Flame Brocade M. R. Young, 81 (Trigonophora flammea Esp. empyrea Hbn.) in Sussex in 1976. The Flame Brocade R. R. Pickering, 9 Ptiphaena pronuba L. observed Day- time Feeding in South Devon in 1976 H. L. O’Heffernan, 56 Trypophloeus asperatus Gyll. (Col.: Scolytidae) in South East London A. A. Allen, 185 Vanessa io L. Larva. A Late N. A. Watkins, 2 Weymouth in July 1977. A Week in G. Summers, 295 Winters on some British Autumn and Spring flying Nee The one of mild D. H. ffennell, Woking during 1976. Some Unusual Dat at C. G. M. de Worms, 1 CURRENT LITERATURE: 51,52; 80; S$, 128, 160; 200; 356,319 OBITUARY: Henry Charles Huggins, F:R.E:S.; 233 AUTHORS Adams, A. E. C., 16, 204 Agassiz, D., 73, 151, 153 Allen, A. A., 169, 176, 182, 185, 187, oe 191, 221, 316, 332, 340, 343, 5 Allen, A. A. Dr., 14, 63, 66, 86 Antram, F. B. S., 235 Baker, P. J., 156 Bell, R. A., 237 Belsey, M. J., 47 Birkett; No L.,, 152 Bland, K. P., 70, 275 Blathwayt, C. S. H., 126 Bond, K. G. M., 328 Bradford, E. S., 194, 340, 342 Breen, J., 296 Bretherton, R. F., 125, 186, 338 Briggs, J., 17, 56 Brindle, A., 145 Bottomley, J. B., 127 Bottomley, S., 127 Britton, M. R., 192 Broom, P.. L..235..**" Brown, D. C. G., 54, 113 x Brown, J., 68 Buckham, A., 54 Burton, G. N., 140, 201, 322, 347 Campbell, J. L., 255, 346 Cattell, C., 18 Chalmers-Hunt, J. M., 89, 107, 125, 159, 198, 248, 256, 276, 282, 338, 347, 348 Chandler, E., 348 Chandler, P. J., 323 Chattelain, R. ier 347 Chipperfield, EH: Ee 82, 212, 249 Classens, A. J. M., 225 Cooter, Tes 120, 339 Coutsis,.J3'G.21,, 35-315 Cowan. C.F. 67, (215077 Craik JY CG AY 883312 Craske, R. M., 343 Crawshaw, K. R., 86 Dacie, J., 265 Dacie, M., 265 Dickson. .C. G. €:, 209.225, 317, Dickson, R., 75 Dixon, CH. 12, 86,107 Dobson, A. H., 78 Dowling, D. N., 83 Elliott, B., 39 Elliott, R., 282. Emmet, A. M., 64, 123, 178, 244, 257 Evans, K. G. W., 83 Fairclough, R., 126, 283 Fearnehough, T. D., 150, 276 ffennell, D. W. H., 105, 126, 341 Ford. Ga, Ac 712 Gardner, A. J. F., 67, 74, 84 Gardiner, B. O. C., 5, 31 Goater, B., 348 GoGiray, Hi. C. 3.5 .82;.112, 1222274 Grammaticos, D. F., 277 Green. J. E., 1552 3164331 Greenwood, D. F., 277 Greenwood, J: A. C.341, 107277 Hadley, M., 34, 36, 42, 187, 222, 264, 276, 298, 308 Harman, T. W., 231, 252, 284, 316 Harper, M. W., 44 Harrison, F., 208 Heath, J2),155 Henning, W. H., 25 Heselden, A. J. M., 88 Higgins, L. G:, 22, 189 Hoare, E. A., 155 Howarth, T. G., 72 Jenkins, R.A. 52257 Jewess, P. La 10, 264, 314 Johnson, Pp Te 11, 15, 257 Kydd, D. W., 348 Lee, H., 284 Lepard, D. A., 126, 159 Lipscomb, C. G., 18, 326 Long, A. G., 10, 308 Luckens, C. J., 2, 149, 170, 236 McLean, I., 148 Messenger, J. L., 224 Michaelis, H. N., 185 Miles, S. R., 271 Mitchell, J., 346 Moore, B. W., 340 Nash, D. R., 276, 305 Newton, J., 88 O’Connor, J: P.309 O’Heffernan, H. L., 35, 41, 56, 88, 314 Owen, D. F., 126, 344 Palmer Rs M3) 239) 285 Parker, N., 56 Parsons, M., 83 Patel Soo. 275 Payne, J. H., 10, 83 Peet, T. N. D., 342 Pelham-Clinton, E. C., 328 Percevaly Mins AS. 15s Pilcher, R. E. M., 54 Pickering “R’ R.. 4,9: 20 Phelps. /lisG2 299 Platts, J., 325, 336 Pleasant, J. A., 127 Pollard, F., 13 Pratt, C3129") 15373303333. Price. 1.6 18,106 Revell, R. J., 329 Revels, R., 43, 45, 69, 74 Riley, N. D., 126 Robinson, G. S., 84 Roche... 3:,..63: 9222 Sankey-Barker, J. P., 127 Sevastopulo, D. G., 42, 253, 255, 335 Shapiro, A. M., 293 Sheppard, D. A., 112 Short, H. G., 62 Showler, A. J., 85 Siggs, L. W., 169, 174, 304 Simpson, A. N. B., 159 Skipworth, R., 337 Smith, F. H. N., 78 Smith, K. G. V., 161 Snith,e., 53 Smith, R., 336 Sokoloff, PiwA. AJ “< 26S8. THE OCT 1° 1989 ENTOMOLOGIST°S="** RECORD AND JOURNAL OF VARIATION Edited by J. M. CHALMERS-HUNT, F.R.E.s. with the assistance of A. A. ALLEN, B.SC., A.R.C.S. C. A. COLLINGWOOD, B.SC., F.R.E.S. NEVILLE BIRKETT, M.A., M.B. H. C. 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Price 50p plus 9p postage Also MARCROLEPIDOPTERA OF SPURN HEAD, E. YORKSHIRE (The Naturalist 1974). Price 25p, plus 64p postage The Editor of the Naturalist, University of Bradford, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD7 1DP 129 The Occurrence of Agrius convolvuli L. in 1976 as Recorded from Peacehaven, Sussex By COLIN PRATT™* Further to a recent short note (Ent. Rec., 1976, 88: 232) reporting the capture of a male Convolvulus Hawk moth during July 1976, the following details have been extracted from my diary for that year. My purpose is to make the data available to other interested students of migratory trends and occurrences. Observations A purpose grown 7ft. plot of flowering Nicotiana plants (back-lit by a shielded 100 watt tungsten bulb for ease of observation) provided by far the main source of attraction to the moths—although as can be seen, the M.V. trap did take a few specimens. A watch was kept for A. convolvuli for an hour each night after darkness fell, and on their arrival the swooping pre-feeding flight immediately became apparent in the com- paratively yellowish light of the tungsten electric light bulb. After a few short passes they would settle down to feed, hovering gently, moving up and down the flower patch. Their wing-beats could be plainly heard as almost the whole length of the moth’s proboscis was carried outstretched horizontally from flower to flower—probing each floral head for nectar. Few of the Convolvulus Hawks appeared to have a petal colour preference and several made as if to examine my person as I stood motionless before them, watching. Only in a single case did the electronic flash from my camera disturb a moth sufficiently for it to abandon the Nicotiana—although in contrast, they were all extremely sensitive to slight changes in light intensity, especially those caused or accompanied by movement. Weather conditions naturally varied throughout the principal period of captures, but in the main flight-time tem- peratures of 10 to 12 degrees Centigrade, on still moonlit nights, were recorded. The odd cloudy and slightly gusty evening with improved temperatures occurred, but the most marked exception was September 10th when heavy cold rain and a gale failed to deter a female needing nectar. Thus it would seem that the normally favourable meteorological conditions for moths play a reduced role in the flight pattern of A. convolvuli, when compared to most other British species —although in my own experience, several species of Sphin- gidae fly in such weather, especially S. ligustri L. Nevertheless consistency was established, and the highest numerical results obtained on clear, cool, moonlit nights. Despite releases, no previously noted specimens were seen subsequent to capture. An interesting phenomenon thus became apparent—during the 12-day period August 30th to September 10th inclusive, over a third of the insects noted were observed at exactly the same time each night and a * “Oleander’’, 5 View Road, Peacehaven, Newhaven, Sussex. 130 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 /Vya7 figure approaching two-thirds appeared within the same 15 minute period. This trait was noted in Italy by Redfern (1962), as is their more general flight behaviour by Barrett (1895), Tutt (1901), Newman (1965), and many others. Altogether it was a memorable and inspiring visual experience with which mere descriptions, however graphic, cannot compete. The details of the moths observed are as follows—those bearing an asterisk being taken at M.V. light. Date B.S.T. — p.m. Sex Condition July 6th-7th Unknown M Very poor* August 26th iLt5 F Good* August 30th 8.30 M Excellent August 30th 8.40 M Excellent August 30th 9.05 F Excellent September Ist 8.15 M Excellent September 1st pits) M Excellent September Ist 11.30 F Excellent* September 2nd 8.15 M Excellent September 2nd OAS F Excellent September 3rd 8.15 F Excellent September 4th 8.25 M Excellent September 6th 8.20 M Excellent September 6th 8.45 M Good September 7th 9.05 M Good September 8th 8.15 M Poor September 9th 8.15 M Good September 9th 8.15 M Poor September 10th 8.30 F Excellent September 16th 255 M Poor September 18th Before 11.00 M Good* September 19th-20th After 10.00 M Good* September 20th 10.10 F Excellent* September 28th Before 10.00 F Excellent* September 30th- October Ist ~| Unknown M Excellent* October 3rd-4th Unknown M Good* The terms used to document the individual moth’s physical condition are amplified as follows: — (a) Excellent—Perfect, a specimen without flaw. (b) Good—Wing with small but noticable scale of cilia deficiency. (c) Poor—Wings with excessive scale and cilia deficiency, including splits. (d) Very poor—Wing ends frayed with chips and splits, scales deficient to the point of transparency, etc. To partially summarise the above list of observations, a total of 26 A. convolvuli were noted with a male/female ratio of approximately 2 to 1. The average male wingspan was 10.5 cm.—females 11.7 cm. Almost all the males examined were referable either to ab. variegata Tutt, or to ab. virgata Tutt. The Question of Origin — Foreign or British The unusual and consistently excellent conditions encoun- tered, both of moths and weather, gave rise to several questions regarding their origin. There being few precedents for such an occurrence this century, the possibilities included a local THE OCCURRENCE OF AGRIUS CONVOLVULI L. IN 1976131 British brood having developed. Mr. Harman’s recent interesting note (Ent. Rec., 88:231) makes this rare event much more likely locally, with his discovery of larvae and a pupa in Kent during late August. Nevertheless, with only the sometimes misleading physical condition of the insects (Williams, 1965) on which to base such speculation, thought was given to a relatively unknown area in determining the phenomenon—the amount of fat present. Fat Content As Dr. Williams (1965) quoted, in his interesting book on the migratory habits of insects, that the quantity of fat present in a migratory insect appears to drop dramatically during a long flight, I decided to take this rather rare opportunity to carry out fat determinations on six A. convolvuli. The moths selected were the first capture in July as a “known” migrant for comparison, plus a further two males and three females from dates spanning all of September. Although I anticipated possible substantial individual variations in fat content, I hoped that the result would at least be a check for the presence of a British brood. However, complicating the issue was the fact that a British bred moth flying locally could produce similar low fat yields to that envisaged from a foreign visitor—but only after prolonged activity. This was a secondary reason for recording, and reproducing in this paper, individual moth’s physical condition on capture. The results of the chemical analysis were as follows and were calculated from the moths dry weight, excluding wings. Date of Capture Sex Fat % July 6th-7th M Ls September 2nd F 5.3 September 10th F 6.3 September 19th-20th M 31 September 20th F 1.0 September 20th- October Ist M 52 Whilst some of the fat contents were as anticipated, and that to be expected from a mixture of both foreign and locally bred moths, the females examined appeared to pose a problem. Although perhaps unlikely, and as far as is known without precedent, the results suggest a sexual differential in original average fat content, ex pupa. Nevertheless, the figures obtained are similar to parameters experienced by Dr. Williams when studying P. gamma L. in a similar manner. Apart from the aforementioned, there appears to be little published data on this rather specialised subject, but the figure of 52% found in a late male is not a surprising one—in a freshly emerged ‘insect. It would seem that much of the fat is possibly a kind of “reserve supply” of available energy but more research is 132 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/V/77 necessary on this subject, especially on sexual comparisons ex pupa, and the relative utilisations of fat and nectar as fuels in lepidoptera, before firm conclusions can be drawn from this source alone. Further origin indicators were thus searched for, resulting in my attentions being directed to the closer examination of the females caught, and their eggs within. | On the Subject of Ova As the total pre-emergence time spent alive often seems to affect sexual maturity (Newman, 1965), presumably mainly in the pupal stage, and as this must be relatively short if a home-grown brood is to have emerged, I hoped that examina- tion of the mature ova ratio would provide further clues to the moths origins. There are, however, two complicating factors. As the species is also migratory to Europe and not indigenous (Newman, 1965) it seems likely that many records, especially those of a later date from Britain, are of offspring of migratory moths breeding on the continent. Therefore, if this is true the aforementioned tendency to sexual immaturity should also be present in these moths, but hopefully to a lesser extent. There is also the question of mature ova ratio present ex pupa. Several authors (Ross, 1965 and Williams, 1965) state that ova can develop in insects after emergence—from, and to, what extent in A. convolvuli under this year’s conditions was a matter of conjecture. To minimise this effect, all dissected females were kept alive and fairly quiescent for a week before examination—allowing time for as much ova development as would normally occur. Four females were kept in a quest for fertile ova, one being entrusted to my friend and colleague, Mr. G. Botwright of Newhaven. A variety of different techniques, temperatures and humidity changes were tried—all being completely unsuc- cessful. A single example was therefore dissected revealing a total of 315 slightly eliptical eggs—some of which were immature, their sizes varying widely when measured across the major axis. By comparison, the mature darker green ova measured on average 1,250 microns (1.25 mm.) with a relatively small size differential. Curiously, the mature egg size is some- what at odds with several previous records of ova being noted or dissected out (Buckler, 1887 and Newman, 1965), these being larger than those previously noted. As the opportunity presented itself, two further female A. convolvuli were dissected—many of the resultant immature ova taking the form of half-filled egg capsules. The following details were also recorded: — Size of Immature Number of % Mature Ova across major Date of Capture Ova Ova axis in microns September 2nd 315 80 500 to 900 September 10th 305 None Mostly 300 September 20th 254 20 220 to 515 oa THE OCCURRENCE OF AGRIUS CONVOLVULI L. IN 1976 = 133 As can be seen, perhaps by coincidence, an almost com- plete series of ova maturity ratios were noted in only three moths—at least two of which had not deposited any eggs prior to capture (see the very large numbers of eggs encountered). Being a series, the result can only indicate that either no rule for ova ratios exists under the conditions examined, or, that both foreign and locally bred moths were in flight—but at different periods. Although statistically a very small sample, only roughly a third of the ova examined were of sufficient maturity to be fertilised by (in this year of comparative plenty) an available male. At the stages examined in each moth’s development, two-thirds of the eggs were immature—probably permanently. In the light of this information, perhaps the high rate of sexual immaturity should be suspected as a major cause of the relative paucity of larval records for A. convolvuli in this country, considering the number of adults noted. In addition, Newman (1965) quotes that the general experience amongst breeders of the species is one of an abnormally high mortality rate in the early stages of development after egg laying—due to ova infertility, and later, larval weakness. The microscopic examination of A. convolvuli ova appeared to be a promising additional line of enquiry regarding origin differentiation—but again, obviously more research is necessary. Comparisons Two further potential sources of relevant information are available—the correlation of the conditions and dates of capture with other sightings throughout Britain, and similarly, accurate comparison of the sex ratios encountered. Both are unavailable to me at this time. Time and Theory After checking many sources, it would seem that a minimum period of approximately three months is required for A. convolvuli to complete a life cycle in Britain, without forcing. There are many records which exceed this figure, all individual stages being subject to wide fluctuations in time scale. However, bearing in mind the heat of the 1976 summer, it seems not an unreasonable period on which to base any time cycle calculations. This time element thus virtually eliminates the possibility of a British emergence before late September—unless an extremely unusual, very early, and unrecorded migration occurred. Notwithstanding the time element, an early local brood should yield different fat and ova results than those found. However, a migration during late August/early September would explain the comparatively low fat contents, high mature ova ratio, and the decline in physical condition from September 6th onwards. Should a local brood have developed from a late June/early July migration, one would expect a re-occurrence of the species in late September —but again with specific and different characteristics. The British bred specimens may be physically smaller but in very 134 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/V/77 good condition, with high fat contents and a low ova maturity ratio in the female. Many of these criteria were achieved in all the insects examined from the latter section of the noted observations. Consistency to the theory of a local late Septem- ber emergence is strengthened when plotting time against occurrence using a histogram. I understand there has been a further, somewhat compli- cating, series of A. convolvuli observations from very late September through mid-October—at least one female of which laid fertile ova. Without analysis of the individuals involved, one can only postulate the theory that they were migratory in origin, possibly having the same parents as the main earlier influx—yet spending sufficient time in the pupal stage to yield sexually fertile adults. Tentative Conclusions Balancing all the information available to me at this time, it would therefore seem that a relatively small migration took place in late June/early July, possibly trans-continentally— fertile ova being successfully deposited, at least locally, in Sussex and Kent. In late August and the first third of Septem- ber a massive migration of the species occurred, probably emerging in Europe—many, but by no means all, being infertile moths. The second third of September saw the gradual phasing out (and/or moving on) of the migration, with possibly the first odd local emergence. The final section of the month, including the October record, saw a numerically small resur- gence of occurrences due to the local emergence proper. Regarding the final apparent migration noted in the South at this time, it is concluded that it was not recorded from the Peacehaven locality. As was stated at the beginning, my intention has been to provide information, but also to stimulate the reporting of sightings and possibly different interpretations of the available data concerning the 1976 occurrences of A. convolvuli, if considered appropriate. Perhaps the most important point to arise from this paper, is the necessity for an assemblage of all available information on the species as noted during 1976. Otherwise, it will be a rather difficult task to cement the firm and important conclu- sions available, surveyed as they are at the moment, from a single geographical (and personal) standpoint. As a final conclusion, to quote a friend, a lepidopterist of some 60 years standing: ‘‘The more one learns about moths, the less one really knows’’. References Barrett, C. G., 1895. The Lepidoptera of the British Isles, 2: 25-26. Buckler, W., 1887. Larvae of British Butterflies and Moths, 2: 108. Newman, L. H., 1965. Hawkmoths of Great Britain and Europe, 59-62. Redfern, J. H., 1962. Other Occurrences of A. convolvuli in 1962, Ent. Rec., 74: 275. Ross, H. H., 1965. A Textbook of Entomology, 180. Tutt, J. W., 1901. Practical Hints for the Field Lepidopterist, 1:76, 87. Williams, C. B., 1965. Insect Migration, 99, 183, 185-186. 135 Collecting in Malaysia: January and February 1976 By C. G. M. DE Worms, M.A., Ph.D., F.R.E.S.* During the first week in August 1972, I had the oppor- tunity and pleasure of not only sampling some of the remark- able lepidoptera which that grand country Malaysia produces, but also of meeting the leading experts, notably Henry Barlow and ‘“‘Wickie”’ Fleming (vide Ent. Rec. (1973), 85: 205-210, 238-240). At that date they gave me a very cordial invitation to make a return and longer stay since I was then only able to fit in the inside of a week’s intensive collecting as I was on my way to the International Congress of Entomology in Canberra. During 1975 Anthony Owston had also migrated to Kuala Lumpur. They gave me a further combined and most pressing invitation to try some collecting at a different time of the year, preferably during the early months when it was likely to be fairly rainy with a greater profusion of insects. Soon after Christmas, 1975 seemed to present the best chance. However, I found it not possible to set out until the end of January 1976, and flew direct to Kuala Lumpur on the 28th of that month, arriving after a few stops en route in the late afternoon of January 29th which was the virtual start of the Chinese New Year celebrations. I was met by Henry Barlow who had arranged for me to stay with him over the holiday weekend at his country seat at Genting, on the Selangor Pahang border some 25 miles to the north-east of the city. I had first been to this most attractive resort soon after he had taken it over in 1972 when it was in disrepair. But in the 32 years interval he had completely transformed it into a most com- fortable and luxurious home which was to be my headquarters on three separate occasions. It is perched on a small eminence at just over 2,000 ft. with a mile-long rough drive leading up from the main road. It produced a biturong the evening my host drove me from the airport. I was greeted by a blazing sun on the morning of the 30th which, as events turned out, was to persist with hardly a break for my whole stay of a month. There had been hardly any rain after a very wet spell just after Christmas. It was very pleasant reacquainting myself with the surrounding country and thick forest over most of the big estate of several hundred acres. It was not long before I spotted that magnificent butterfly Trogonoptera brookiana albescens Rothschild sailing round some of the tree tops and settling on yellow flowers. Late that afternoon one was seen hovering over lantana blossom near the house, which has a small valley of luscious herbage leading to the foot of the large waterfall. This was alive with blues mainly as before with both sexes of Jamides celeno aelianus Fab., while the chief satyrid was Ypthima pandocus corticaria Butler. Eurema hecabe con- tubernalis Moore was the most numerous Grass yellow and ‘Neptis hylas papaja Moore seemed to be gliding about in most * Three Oaks, Shores Road, Horsell, Woking, Surrey. 136 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 5) V7a7 of the glades, but on the whole butterflies were perhaps not in such profusion in this region as they were in 1972, since quite a lot of the forest had been cleared since then. However, there was quite enough on the wing to keep me busy, especially on the 3lst when many Danaids were apparent, mainly the yellow winged Danaus aspasia Fab. and the very striped D. vulgaris macrina Fruhstorfer, together with both sexes of Euploea mulciber Cramer. Later that afternoon with my host, we saw a female brookiana fluttering quite low down which eluded us. However, he netted a fine Delias hyparete metarete Butler. The chief feature of February Ist, another very fine day, was seeing a huge female Troides amphrisus ruficollis Butler sail along the drive where several other Danaids appeared, including Euploea tulliolus ledereri C. & R. Felder, while a notable local record was a male of the scarce nympha- line Euripus nyctelius euploeoides C. & R. Felder which was at rest in the drive. While the male is like a Neptis, the female which I took in 1972 is a mimic of Euploea diocletianus Fab. That evening my host took me and some of his relatives also staying with him, up the fairly newly constructed road to the Genting Highlands Hotels complex situated at some 5,000 ft., about ten miles from his house. As we ascended we saw orchids growing in profusion on many trees, but when we reached the summit we found a dense mass of humanity enjoying the Chinese New Year festivities. After a hurried meal we quickly descended after dark and were rewarded with a remarkable night for moths. Our first halt was at a local police station where we were welcomed to look round. Nearly every wall where there were lights, was smothered in species of all sizes, from some huge Uraniids to some small noctuids and geometers. We had a remarkable harvest there and still more at a lighted archway further down which was also well patronised mainly by members of the Footman genus (Lithosiids), such as the distinctly local species Chionaema malayensis Hampson and C. selangorica Hampson. Some huge Cossids were also sitting round the lights. The next two days, February 2nd and 3rd, were spent in the grounds of Genting where 7. brookiana was seen on several occasions, chiefly before midday. On the latter date a very large Saturniid moth alighted on one of the doors after dark. It turned to be a perfect male example of Antheraea helferi Moor, measuring nearly 8 in. in expanse. The next day, the 4th, I accompanied my host and his relatives into the capital down the winding Gombak valley. Later that morning a taxi drove me the 100 miles along the northern road to Tapah, near Ipoh, and after a halt for lunch the further 40 miles up to nearly 5,000 ft. to the famous Cameron Highlands. This resort consists of a fairly large hotel centre originally cut out of the primary forest and surrounding a large size golf course on which it was possible to meet an occasional roving tiger, as was the case in July 1975. It was a delightful setting, though I arrived on the only wet day of COLLECTING IN MALAYSIA +. 83% my stay. However, some people visiting my headquarters at Foster’s Hotel kindly drove me up to the Brinchang summit at 6,000 ft. through the extensive tea estates, but unfortunately in a deluge. But it was soon apparent that the lepidoptera were not numerous in this region at this season, possibly due to the ravages of collecting them for sale, though the forest around had not been in any way depleted or destroyed. Lampides baeticus L. seemed to be the commonest blue. On February 6th, I penetrated one of the forest trails near a large house called Hopetoun where the chief capture was the brightly coloured Delias ninus Wallace. It was on the 8th that I dis- covered the old road leading south which ascended through a thick tree plantation and was bordered on the north side by unbroken forest which it was not possible to penetrate owing to the local political situation. However, it was the most fruit- ful area in the vicinity. By parading up and down this road a good many very desirable insects were met with, notably the Riodinid Abisara neophron chelina Fruhstorfer. On the next morning there was the delightful little nymphaline Limenitis daraxa theoda Fruhstrofer, looking like a small White Admiral. This stretch of road was mostly my daily venue. Another much more notable capture on this beat on the 12th was Delias belladonna malayana Pendlebury, which is exceedingly local and normally only found near the summit of Brinchang. Another visit to the Hopetoun locality produced on the 11th Precis atlites L. and Papilio helenus L. On the morning of the 13th in very fine conditions, I took a taxi to the top of Brin- chang at some 6,500 ft. and collected along part of the road near the top where a good many Danaids were flying. These turned out to be mainly Danaus similis sinopion Fruhstorfer and D. sita ethologica Swinhoe. After just over a week’s very pleasant, though perhaps none too profitable sojourn in these delightful surroundings, I set out on February 14th once more by taxi for the capital at a cost of the equivalent of just £10 for the 150 miles. I was welcomed again by Henry Barlow, this time in one of the few thunderstorms during my stay, but to his dismay there had been no rain at his estate where it was so badly needed. On the Sunday, the 15th, we had a gathering of entomologists for the day, including ‘‘Wickie” and Alix Fleming, Anthony Owston and his wife, and Harry Traill, but not many insects were on the move, though a nice black and white Skipper, Tagiades ultra Evans, was taken inside the large living room which measured a length of some 60 ft. The next two days were spent once more surveying the forest area round the Genting estate. Both sexes of Euthalia iapis ruseda Moore and of E. monina Fab. were seen with their respective remarkable dimorphism, but nothing of especial note was seen on this my second visit to this locality. On the 18th my host drove me into the city for a few days visit to Anthony Owston in his fine house on the outskirts just bordering the golf course, but the thermometer on his verandah that afternoon registered 138 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 1S /VIFT 94°F. in the shade. Appias lyncidas vasava Fruhstorfer was the main pierid on the wing in his garden. However, the following day “‘Wickie’’ Fleming called for me and we drove to the Ampang Reservoir a few miles outside the city. This well-known and productive locality is surrounded by thick forest where not long before some other collectors saw a black panther cross the path where they were having lunch. After skirting the small reservoir we made our way along a very shaded forest path overshadowed by thick vegetation. One of our earliest captures was the magnificent Amathustid Ama- thuxidia amathaon dilucida Honrath. This male example had quite a noticeably pleasant scent. One of the larger tailless Papilios which found its way into our net was the female of Atrophaneura nox erebus Wallace with the smaller Papilio demoleon Cramer. Another interesting inhabitant was the spectacular Satyrid Neorina loewii neophyta Fruhstorfer, with its peculiar white patch on the hindwings. One of the largest of the Oak Blues, Arhopala centaurus Fab., was another capture together with the huge Skipper Gangara thyrsis Fab. Several species of Jamides were present, including J. coeruleus Druce. The following day, February 20th, my host took me to the famous locality of Ulu Langat which I had sampled to good advantage in 1972, but this time we went further up the valley on a rough track. A good many patches of prawns were placed at intervals along the pathway. These were well patronised in due course, as were some damp patches from which a cloud of butterflies arose, mostly Pierids. The most spectacular was the orange Appias nero figulina Butler, with some A. indra plana Butler. Our bait attracted no less than six of the grand white Poliura delphis concha Vollenhoeven, with a good many Polyura athamas samatha Moore as well P. hebe chersoneus Fruhstorfer and Charaxes bernardus cepax Fruhstorfer. Some of the Sword-tails (Graphium) were about in numbers, including G. agetes iponus Fruhstorfer and G. antiphates itamputi Butler, also the tailless G. delertessii Guérin-Méneville and the scarce G. ramaceus pendleburyi Corbet. The handsome Danaid Euploea diocletianus flew lazily around our car. There was also quite a host of small Lycaenids and a grand Troides helena cerberus C. & R. Felder sailed over us as we were leaving. The next morning, the 21st, I accompanied the Owstons back to the Genting estate for my third stay with Henry Barlow. On the way we halted at a very inviting spot about 20 miles up the Gombak Valley where quite a lot was flying, including the huge Papilio memnon agenor L., also the almost equally large female of P. nephelus annulus Pendlebury. The female of Euthalia iapis puseda Moore was also in evidence with several smaller Arhopalas and Skippers flitting along a small waterfall. Over the weekend at the Genting estate, I again saw several 7. brookiana, all flying high, as well as some of the Danaids already mentioned and the female of Euthalia monina Fab. taken in the house of my host Henry COLLECTING IN MALAYSIA 139 Barlow. On the evening of February 24th he drove me to a party in Kuala Lumpur attended by the Flemings. They took me back to their home at Bukit Rotan, some 30 miles to the north-east of the city. I had paid a brief visit there in 1972 and was not to be disappointed this time, since not only was there a good assortment in the garden and at their bait trap, but we revisited some of the best localities in the district. On the 25th, we went over to the Bukit Tarek reserve which had proved so fruitful on my previous trip, and was no less so on this occasion when we strewed the roadway with dumps of prawns which proved very attractive to the Pierids and Papilios. G. antiphates was well to the fore with a few Appias nero and many Saletara liberia distanti Butler, while Graphium bathycles bathycloides Honrath and G. agamemnon L. were frequent visitors to the bait. Several tailed Lycaenids were seen, including Eooxylides tharis distanti Riley, Zeltus amassa maximinianus Fruhstorfer and the scarceAncema blanka Nicé- ville with its silver underside. Polyura hebe and P. delphis also appeared here. The next two days we visited forest reserves, the first on the 26th called Sungei Buloh which was not too productive, though there were a good many Neptis, Euremas and also Euthalia iapis. However, the one reserve on the 27th known as Rantan Panjang provided many more insects along its forest paths where once more the prawns proved very attrac- tive to most of the Graphium species enumerated earlier. Several fine Nymphalines were also present, including the splendid Parthenos sylvia lilacinus Butler and several Cirro- chroa emalea Guérin-Méneville which liked to alight on one’s hand, while Athyma pravara helma Fruhstorfer and A. asura idita Moore were also sailing round the thick foliage, and the large Danaid Euploea camaralzeman paraclaudina Pendel- bury. Back at Bukit Rotan the chief visitors to the traps were the huge Amathusia phidippus L. and the unusual Satyrid Elymnias hypermnestra beatrice Fruhstorfer with its dentated wings and blue spotting, mainly the females. Our final day on February 28th we spent at Kuala Selangor which is virtually on the Strait of Malacca, but our only capture was a small form of Danaus chrysippus L. Later that evening my hosts drove me to the airport at Kuala Lumpur, which I left at midnight and with a stop at Bahrain reached Heathrow the morning of February 29th. So ended a most delightful and rewarding month in the Malay Peninsula, made all the more enjoyable thanks to the kindness of many friends and in particular Henry Barlow, the Flemings and Anthony Owston and his wife, who acted as my hosts, and not least too to Datu Harry Traill who showed us the fine number of local moths he had been accumulating over several years. On my return a great many of these were identified by Mr. W. H. Tams, also by Mr. Alan Hayes and Mrs. Maureen Lane, all of the ‘British Museum (Natural History), and I am very indebted to them for their valuable assistance. The identification of the 140 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 I5/V/77 butterflies was greatly simplified since the publication in 1975 of Mr. Wickham Fleming’s very fine two volumes on “‘The Butterflies of West Malaysia and Singapore’’, both admirably illustrating in colour most of the thousand species already recorded in that large region. But I have thought it advisable on this occasion not to add a complete list of the some 200 species of lepidoptera we saw, owing to the large amount of additional print space it would occupy. In the text I have enumerated the principal species. In all, we noted 17 Papilio- nidae, 14 Pieridae, 10 Danaidae, 7 Satyridae, 3 Amathusiidae, 23 Nymphalidae, 2 Riodinidae, at least 40 Lycaenidae, and some 25 Hesperidae. THE GRIZZLED SKIPPER (PYRGUS MALVAE L.) ON THE ISLE OF SHEPPEY, KENT. —I am pleased to be able to report that for the last three years I have found specimens of Pyrgus malvae Linn. at Minster, on the Isle of Sheppey (OS: 51/ 94-73-). I note from Mr. Chalmers-Hunt’s Butterflies and Moths of Kent, Vol. 1 that he found only one record of this butterfly for the island and that he considered it doubtful that it was still present. Similarly, The Provisional Distribution Maps, issued by the Biological Records Centre in 1975, show no records in this area at all. As I have taken it consistently, it would appear to be fairly well established, on rough open ground about 250 yards from the sea. I have taken only small numbers each year, but over an area almost half a mile in depth, between April and early June. Because of its scarcity, I have released all except one of my captures—having kept the first, which was in fact taken by my then eight-year-old daughter, who came home one day and described seeing it sitting on some tall grass. She gave quite an accurate description, and I did not believe her. So she went back and caught it! I have no knowledge of it elsewhere on the island, although one would think its likely range would extend east- wards along the cliffs. I certainly hope this is the case, as building development is encroaching apace. — GEOFFREY N. BurTON, “‘Mar-y-Mar’’, Minster Drive, Minster-in-Sheppey, Kent, ME12 2NG. HYLES LINEATA LIVORNICA ESPER (STRIPED HAWK-MOTH) AND ABRAXAS SYLVATA SCOPOLI (CLOUDED MAGPIE) ON THE IsLE OF WIGHT. — On the night of 27th June, 1976, which was particularly mild, at about 11 p.m. a male specimen of H.1. livornica was seen flying around my m.v. trap. I duly netted it to find that one antenna was missing and one forewing was slightly damaged. On the same night I took a fresh specimen i sylvata. — PETER J. CRAMP, Stone Cross Cottage, Gods- ill, I.o. W. 141 Strange Visitors to a Suburban Garden By M. J. STERLING* I have been running a 125 watt mercury vapour trap in the back garden of the family house in suburban Winchester for some three years, and throughout that period I have been astonished by a great number of most unexpected, and I may say most welcome, stray insects, particularly those associated with the river valleys in Hampshire. The trap is run on a fairly typical piece of Hampshire dry chalk dowland, and is almost entirely enclosed by beech trees and a suburban housing estate, thus it would be fair to expect that catches would consist almost entirely of downland or of beech-feeding species. This not being the case, particularly with regard to the number of insects usually associated with the reedbed and water meadow plus sallow carr vegetation in the river valleys, I have attempted to find out under what conditions these insects stray, and the place of origin of the strays. As regards the origin of these species, the nearest stretch of productive river valley is that portion of the River Itchen which runs through VC 12 (North Hampshire), thus in order to make a comparison of captures in that area with captures from the downs, a trap with a 6 or a 15 watt actinic tube was run on about 15 occasions during the year. Catches in this trap did not give a really coherent picture of the lepidoptera contained in the valley, thus I have also drawn on information provided in “‘The Butterflies and Moths of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight’’ (1975) by B. Goater, concerning this area. The actinic traps showed that if, as occasionally happened this summer, the air temperature dropped below 7°C. the moths in the marshes showed an almost total disinclination to move. On the occasions this happened the only species recorded were Mythimna pallens Linn., Agrotis exclamationis Linn., Diarsia rubi View., Arenostola phragmitidis Hubn., Hydraecia petasitis Doubl., Thumata senex Hiibn.; all species which could have bred within 5 yards of the location of the trap. If the temperature remained above 7°C. there was a greater diversity of species, numbers increasing in proportion to the temperature until, on nights when the temperature did not drop below 11°C. one might expect, depending on the time of year, from the reedbeds: Mythimna obsoleta Hiibn., Mythimna_ straminea_ Treits., Chilodes maritima Taus., Rhizedra lutosa Hiubn., Archanara geminipuncta Haw., Photedes pygmina Haw.; from the water meadows: Celaena haworthii Curt., Schrankia costaestrigalis Steph., Apamea unanimis Hubn., Apamea ophiogramma Esp.; and from the sallow carr: Xanthia togata Esp., Clostera curtula Linn., Harpyia furcula Clerck., Pterostoma palpina Clerck. It has always been known that if the night minimum air temperature does not drop below 15°C., insects will tend to stray from the marshes, but empirical evidence, for this year *2 Hampton Lane, Winchester, Hants. and Brasenose College, Oxford. 142 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/V/77 at least, tends to show that the phenomenon of straying occurs at much lower temperatures. On the 15th May, when the air temperature dropped to a mere 4°C., the 125 watt M.V. produced a fairly fresh Harpyia furcula Clerck., which is most unusual up on the chalk, but common in the river valley. Apart from this complete perversity in the period 10.vii to 16.vii.76 inclusive, in which the modal night minimum temperature was 10°C. and the mean 9.8°C., seven river valley insects appeared in the M.V. trap including: 3 Apamea ophiogramma Esp., 2 Mythimna straminea Treits., 1 Coenobia rufa Haw. and 1 Hypenodes turfosalis Wocke. Admittedly this was the week immediately following the period of intense heat, but three of the insects came on the 16th. Furthermore, between the 16th and the end of July when the average night minimum tempera- ture was under 12°C. a further six insects including: 2 Harpyia furcula Clerck., 1 Apamea ophiogramma Esp., 1 Nymphula nymphaeata Linn., 1 Coenobia rufa Haw. and 1 Celaena leucostigma Hiibn. appeared. It is just possible to argue that the frequency of these strays was caused by the heatwave upsetting their normal pattern of development in some way, but this would not, I think, hold true for the 2 Celaena haworthii Curt., caught on the 9th and the 22nd August or indeed the Thumata senex Hiibn. and Donacaula mucronellus D. & S., taken on the 16th June, or the Crambus pascuella Linn., taken on the next night, a week before the heatwave set in, or indeed the Lobophora halterata Hufn., which braved, or was carried by, a wind of some 16 m.p.h. to arrive in the trap on the Ist June. Throughout the period from the 23rd June to the 9th July the temperature dropped below 15°C. on only one occasion, on the night of the 24th June, when nothing of interest turned up. During this period the garden trap suffered two invasions, one in the period between the 26th June and Ist July, and the other between the 4th and 8th July. In the first of these periods I recorded: 2 Eustrotia uncula Clerck., 1 Cleoceris viminalis Fab., 3 Chilodes maritima Taus., 1 Lobo- phora sexalata Retz., 2 Mythimna pudorina D. & S., 2 Enargia ypsillon D. & S. and 1 Schrankia costaestrigalis Steph. The second produced: 2 Mythimna straminea Treits., 3 Cleoceris viminalis Fab., 3 Schrankia costaestrigalis Steph., 1 Apamea ophiogramma Esp., 1 Enargia ypsillon D. & S. and 1 Nymphula nymphaeata Linn. The critical figure for the migration of marshland lepidop- tera I would agree was 15°C., but on the basis of this research I would mark 15°C. as the point at which the tendency to stray becomes a wholesale exodus, and that barring the occasional freak, such as my perverse furcula, one might expect stray insects from the marshes in a trap if the temperature does not fall below about 11°C. It would be valid criticism of these conclusions to say that migration is a matter of degree and that whereas a trap placed two miles from the nearest river valley, as the M.V. trap is, will produce marshland species at temperatures of STRANGE VISITORS TO A SUBURBAN GARDEN 143 11°C., a trap placed five or six miles away requires that the temperature should not drop below 15°C. in order to produce the same insects, and it would seem plausible that the great majority of marshland insects caught on the chalk immediately North of Winchester came from the nearest available reed- beds, water meadows and carr in the Itchen valley. However, there is the strongest possible evidence to suggest that a fair number of these insects came either from much further down the valley in the underworked part of VC 11 (South Hamp- shire), or that they did not come from the Itchen at all, but flew seven or eight miles across the downs from the Test valley. As I have said previously, the nearest stretch of really productive river valley is that part of the Itchen which runs through VC 12. The impression I have from “The Butterflies and Moths of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight’’, is that this part of the valley has been worked very thoroughly, thus one would expect the strays taken on the downs to reflect the composition of the moth population in that part of the valley, as it is the locality nearest to the downland trap. This is by no means the case. Of the species taken in the M.V. trap, 10 out of 20 are accorded the status of scarce, or rarer, by recorders in the Itchen valley. These include: Mythimna pudorina D. & S., Celaena leucostigma Hiibn., Chilodes maritima Taus., Eustrotia uncula Clerck., Hypenodes turfosalis Wocke., Lobo- phora halterata Hufn., Harpyia bifida Brahm, Harpyia furcula Clerck., Donacaula mucronellus D. & S. and Crambus pas- cuella Linn. Of those insects accorded the status of common in that part of the Itchen valley, Mythimna obsoleta Hubn. and Archanara geminipuncta Haw. did not appear at all in spite of the fact that conditions were favourable. Furthermore, in the case of Chilodes maritima Taus. whilst three specimens were caught in the VC 12 Itchen valley in atrocious condition, at the same time the garden M.V. light produced three fairly fresh specimens which may be taken as an indication of emanation from another locality. I am not really conversant with the idea of fight lines, but I would assume that one of the major determinants is the prevailing direction of air movement. If this is so, it would need an easterly, or at worst a north-easterly, breeze to encourage insects from the VC 12 Itchen valley to move towards the trap, and between May and September this hap- pened for a prolonged period only once, producing 2 Celaena haworthii Curt., a VC 12 speciality to the extent that those two are new vice-county records for South Hampshire. Marsh- land insects came to the trap on 26 nights between May and September. On five occasions the wind was blowing from the south, and on the other 19 it blew from the north or west. On this evidence I think it fair to assume that some, if not most, of these insects do not come from the nearest stretch of river valley north of Winchester, but come from the Test, seven or eight miles west of Winchester or from a more 144 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/V/77 southerly part of the Itchen, five or six miles away. I favour the idea that the insects fly over from the Test valley, firstly because on 19 occasions out of 26 the wind would have tended to carry specimens in the right direction and secondly, because I can see no reason for the insects which occur eight miles upstream in VC 12 not occurring in the more southerly part of the valley, as there is a strong tendency for these insects to stray, and it would seem reasonable to assume that for every specimen that strayed away from its natural habitat and ended up on top of a down, there will be several less adven- turous individuals straying, but keeping more or less to their particular natural habitats, foodplants, etc. in the river valley. In conclusion, it would seem that most of the marshland insects coming to my trap on the downs two miles above the Itchen valley come not from that source but from the Test valley, some seven or eight miles away. Furthermore, the fact that half of these insects were caught when the average night minimum air temperature was only between 10°C. and 11°C. tends to show that marshland moths will stray considerable distances on a relatively cold night. SOME UNUSUAL DATES AT WOKING DURING 1976. — The phenomenal weather during the summer of 1976 brought out many species often several weeks ahead of their normal time of emergence and also produced a lot of second and third broods in August and the early autumn which are designated by an asterisk. I have thought it of interest to record the following in chronological order: — June 12th, Comibaena pustulata Hufn. and Cleora rhom- boidaria D. & S.; June 13th, Leucania pallens L. and Laspeyria flexula D. & S.; June 15th, Plusia chrysitis L. and Alcis repan- data L.; June 16th, Habrosyne derasa L. and Ellopia fasciaria L.; June 17th, Diacrisia sannio L.; June 25th, Cryphia perla D. & S. and Parastichtis suspecta Hiibn.; June 25th, Euproctis similis L.; June 27th, Tethea duplaris L. and Ectropis bistortata Borkh.*; June 26th, Euxoa nigricans L.; June 29th, Eilema complana L.; June 30th, Eilema deplana Esp.; July Ist, Drepana binaria Hufn.*, Apamea scolopacina Esp. and Procus literosa Haworth; July 3rd, Crocallis elinguaria L.; July 10th, Apamea secalis L. and Colocasia coryli L.*; July 11th, Triphaena comes Hibn.; July 13th, Amphipyra pyramidea and Harpyia furcula Clerck*; July 14th, Amathes baja D. & S.; July 16th, Calothysanis amata L.*; July 17th, Amathes xantho- grapha L.; July 18th, Nonagria typhae Thunb.; July 30th, Catocala nupta L.; August 2nd, Semiothisa alternaria Hubn.*; August 23rd, Cosymbia albipunctata Hufn.*; September Ist, Calothysanis amata L.*; September 12th, Scopula imitaria Hiibn.*; September 18th, Sterrha aversata L.*; September 20th, Drepana binaria Hufn.*; October 22nd, Deuteronomos fuscan- taria Stephens. — C. G. M. DE Worms, Three Oaks, Woking. PLATE XII Figs. 1, 2: Anisolabis rubella sp.n.— 1, male holotype; 2, male genitalia. Fig. 3: Anisolabis kudagae Burr, male genitalia. 145 The Identity of Anisolabis kudagae Burr (Dermaptera: Carcinophoridae), and a Description of a New Species of Anisolabis from Sri Lanka By A. BRINDLE* Only two species of Anisolabis have previously been recorded from Sri Lanka; these species are endemic and can be easily separated from each other on external characters, A. greeni Burr having rudimentary elytra, whilst A. kudagae Burr lacks all traces of elytra. In an account of the Dermap- tera of Ceylon (Brindle, 1971), based on material collected by the Lund University Expedition in 1962, two series of speci- mens agreeing on external characters with the descriptions of greeni and kudagae were recorded, but since the male genitalia of the latter corresponded with the genus Euborellia and not Anisolabis, kudgae was transferred to Euborellia. A further series of Dermaptera from Sri Lanka, collected by a team from the Geneva Museum in 1970, has recently been examined, and in this material were two species of Anisolabis, again agreeing with greeni and kudagae. The male genitalia of the latter, however, corresponded with Anisolabis and not Euborellia. The kudagae of the Lund material and the kudagae of the Geneva material were obviously different. Burr (1915) figures the male genitalia of kudagae (Pl. XI, fig. 1) but this figure does not agree with the genitalia of the Lund kudagae, nor with the genitalia of the Geneva kudagae, so a re-examination of the male type of kudagae was obviously desirable. In the Burr material, now in the general collection of Dermaptera in the British Museum (Natural History), are three specimens of kudagae, the male and female syntypes from Hakgala, and a third, male, from Maskeliya, the latter mentioned in Burr (1910). A collection of microscopical slides, mainly of male genitalia, and presumably those from which the figures in Burr (1915) are drawn, is also in the British Museum, near the Dermaptera collection. The slides are cross-referenced to the collection, so that any slide referring to any particular species can be easily found, although it is not always possible to correlate a slide to any particular specimen. The single slide with male genitalia labelled Anisolabis kudagae was examined, and this corres- ponds with the figure in Burr (1915). A comparison of the male specimen named as kudagae from the Geneva material with the male type of kudgae showed that both are identical externally, and it was noted that the male type appeared to be intact, and the penultimate sternite beneath which the genitalia are situated seemed to be undis- turbed. The male from Maskeliya, however, lacks the penulti- mate sternite and the genitalia are missing. This suggested the possibility that the genitalia on the slide marked Anisolabis * Entomology Department, Manchester Museum, Manchester, M13 9JL. 146 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 tS NTT kudagae actually came from the Maskeliya male. Permission was kindly given to examine the type male to check if the genitalia had been removed, and this showed that the genitalia were intact. The genitalia have now been removed and mounted in Euparal on a small piece of celluloid attached to the pin of the type male, and these genitalia correspond with the genitalia of the kudagae male from Geneva. It seems clear, therefore, that the male genitalia on the slide and figured in Burr (1915) as kudagae refer to the male specimen from Maskeliya, which represents a new species and which is separable from kudagae by external characters as well as by male genitalia. There are thus three endemic species of Anisolabis now recorded from Sri Lanka — greeni, kudagae, and the new species described below. The species recorded in Brindle (1971) as Euborellia kudagae apparently represents a new species of Euborellia, but since the relevant specimens have been loaned to Dr. Srivastava of the Survey of India, in connection with the preparation of a new volume on Indian Dermaptera, I have suggested to Dr. Srivastava (in litt.) that he deals with this himself. I am indebted to Dr. D. R. Ragge and Mrs. J. A Marshall of the British Museum (Natural History) for permission to examine the types mentioned. Anisolabis rubella sp.n. Anisolabis kudagae Burr: Burr, 1910, F. Brit. India, Derm.: 84 (partim, male from Maskeliya only). Anisolabis kudagae Burr: Burr, 1915, J.R. micr. Soc., 1915: Pl. XI, fig. 1 (genitalia). Shining reddish-brown, legs yellow, antennae yellowish basally, apical part of segment 3 and remaining distal seg- ments dark brown. Cuticle of head, pronotum, and first two abdominal tergites impunctate and glabrous, other abdominal tergites punctured, the punctures increasing in size and density on posterior tergites, largest on tergite 9; last tergite more or less impunctate. Male (fig. 1): head broad, tumid, epicranial sutures prominent, eyes small. Pronotum nearly as long as broad, widened posteriorly, mesonotum transverse, relatively long; metanotum short, hidden by mesonotum (largely due to curva- ture of abdomen), posterior margin concave. Abdomen broadened distally, lateral margins of tergites produced but not pointed, and those of tergites 8-9 and base of 10 rugoso- striate but without ridges. Last tergite large, with a lateral curved ridge toward dorsum, posterior margin excised at each side. Penultimate sternite missing. Each branch of forceps short, broad, trigonal at base, dorsal edge blackish and promi- nent, inner margin with small denticulations, branches asym- metrical. Genitalia (on slide) (fig. 2) with long parameres, right paramere (position in insect) missing except for extreme base; denticulations on the distal lobes, shown in the figure in Burr (1915) not clearly visible. Length of body 13 mm., forceps THE IDENTITY OF ANISOLABIS KUDAGAE BURR 147 2.5 mm. Female unknown. Holotype ¢, Maskeliya, Green: Caught at light, Maske- liya, Ceylon, 4-05 (=April 1905). British Museum (Natural History). The type has only the front pair of legs remaining but is in excellent condition. It appears to be fully mature, so that the reddish colouration is thought to be an adult character and not due to slight immaturity. Burr (1910, p. 84) remarks “The specimen from Maskeliya, sent by Mr. Green, is some- what smaller than the type and much lighter and redder in colour’. Anisolabis kudagae Burr Anisolabis kudagae Burr, 1901, J. Bombay nat. Hist. Soc., 14: 32 Anisolabis kudagae Burr: Burr, 1910, F. Brit. India, Derm.: 84 (partim, male and female from Hatton only). Blackish, legs dark brown, femora blackish at base, antennae yellowish basally, dark brown distally. Male: similar to rubella but pronotum strongly trans- verse; puncturation on abdomen finer; lateral parts of tergites 7, 8, 9 and base of 10 rugoso-striate; last tergite with a dorso- lateral prominence. Penultimate sternite with posterior margin excised medially. Length of body 16.5 mm., forceps 2.5 mm. Genitalia fig. 3. Female: similar to male but last tergite narrower, branches of forceps short, triagonal at base, almost straight and symmetrical. Length of body 13.5 mm., forceps 3.25 mm. 1 6, 1 ¢ syntypes, Kudaga, Hatton, Ceylon, VII/97, O.0.W. (British Museum (Natural History)). Burr (1910) also mentions specimens from Hakgala and Patipola in the Burr material, but these specimens have not been located. The locality Hatton is also given as Hutton in various papers, but the locality labels on the types give ““Hatton’’. Rejected record: Northern India (Kumaon), Gangola (1968). This author places this species and A. dubronii Kirby in the subfamily Brachylabiinae which is an error for Carcino- phorinae. A. kudagae is endemic to Ceylon. The third species of Anisolabis from Sri Lanka, A. greeni Burr, is a blackish species distinct by having rudimentary elytra on the mesonotum. References Brindle, A., 1971. The Dermaptera of Ceylon (Report No. 10 from the ee acy Ceylon Expedition in 1962). Ent. scand. Suppl., Burr, M., 1910. Fauna of British India, Dermaptera, pp. 1-217. London. , 1915. The male genital armature of the Dermaptera, Part 2. J.R. micr. Soc., 1915: 521-546. Gangola, Ch., 1968. Studies on the Dermaptera of Kumaon Hills, Part 2. Entomologist, 101: 52-59. 148 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/V 77 Swarming in Opetia nigra Mg. (Diptera, Platypezidae) and the Capture of a Female By IAN McLEAN* While collecting insects visiting blackthorn (Prunus spinosa L.) blossom on the afternoon of 28th April, 1976, I noticed what appeared to be a small dancing swarm of Micro- phorus (Empididae) overhead. Earlier I had “pooted’’ one individual from a blackthorn twig, and before leaving the locality I gently swept the swarm and collected five of the insects. Later when sorting the catch I realised the captured insects were Opetia nigra Mg., and amongst the five specimens swept from the swarm there was a single female (seldom found in this species). This female was not the specimen captured from the ‘blackthorn bush, as this was a male taken in a separate tube together with other insects captured on the flowers. The swarm consisted of approximately ten individuals, and was centred about eight feet above ground. The black- thorn bush was situated on the west side of a mixed deciduous wood adjoining an area dominated by reeds (Phragmites communis Trin.) at Earlham Woods, Norwich (grid reference TG 1807). The weather at the time of capture was cloudy with sunny intervals and a slight northerly breeze. I cannot trace any previous published record of swarming in O. nigra being observed, and in fact very little is known of the biology and habits of this species. The following day (29th April), Mr. John Ismay swept two female O. nigra at Norman’s Burrow Wood, Norfolk (TF 8923). They were taken over low vegetation, mainly Dog’s Mercury (Mercurialis perennis L.) in warm and sunny weather conditions. On this occasion no males were taken, so pre- sumably these females were not associated with a swarm. Finally, a single female O. nigra was taken in a yellow water trap at the edge of a field of winter wheat at Easton, Norfolk during a sampling programme for cereal aphids and their predators within the week 23rd-30th June, 1976. John Ismay has recently checked the Collin-Verrall collection (at the Hope Department, Oxford) for female O. nigra, and as a result I can put on record the following cap- tures, which give a wider range of dates than the other captures of females recorded here. Under O. nigra: Chippenham Fen, 13.x.1943, J. E. Collin, 1 °; Newmarket, Raylands, 10.viii.1948, J. E. Collin, 1 &; Newmarket, Raylands, 30.iv.1949, J. E. Collin, 1 &. Under O. lonchopteroides Curtis, now considered to be con- specific with O. nigra: Upware (?), 11.vii.1875, G. H. Verrall, 1 2; Chippenham, 7.v.1912, J. E. Collin, 1 °&. The reason why females are captured less often than males is unknown — possibly they fly less than the males, and are therefore less liable to be swept. They may fly for a short * Ganavan, Guise Lane, North End, Bassingbourn, Royston, Herts., SG8 5PJ. SWARMING IN OPETIA NIGRA MG. 149 period of time sufficient only to join a swarm of males for the purpose of mating. Chandler (1976) has noted that females are often found in copula, which would tend to support this theory. O. nigra appears to be widespread in Norfolk, and I can supply the following recent records for the county (those collected by J. W. Ismay are in Norwich Castle Museum): Earlham Woods (TG 1807), 11.v.1975, 1 ¢, J.W.I.; Felbrigg Woods (TG 1840), 24.x.1975, 1 6, J.W.1.; Dersingham Fen (TF 6729), 31.x.1975, 1 6, J.W.1I.; Swanton Novers (TG 0131), 2.xi.1975, 1 8, J.W.1.; Upton Broad (TG 3813), 4.xi.1975, 1 ¢, J.W.1.; Earlham Woods (TG 1807), 28.iv.1976, 5 6, 1 &, I.F.G.M.; Norman’s Burrow Wood (TF 8923), 29.iv.1976, 2 2, J.W.I.; Upton Broad (TG 3913), 13.vi.1976, 1 ¢, J.W.L; Easton (TG 1210), 23-30.vi.1976, 1 ?, LF.G.M. Acknowledgment I should like to thank John Ismay (now of the Hope Department at Oxford) for kindly placing his records at my disposal for this note. References Chandler, P. J. 1972. The flat-footed flies (Diptera, Aschiza-Platypezidae) known to occur in Kent, with a key to the genera and species so far recorded from the British Isles. Trans. Kent Field Club, 5: 15-44. Chandler, P. J. 1976. The Irish species of flat-footed flies (Diptera: Platypezidae). Irish Naturalists’ Journal, 18: 289-293. Verrall, G. H. 1901. British Flies, 8: London. STRYMONIDIA W-ALBUM KNOCH IN HAMPSHIRE. — In Goater’s The Butterflies and Moths of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight (1974, p. 224) it is stated of Strymonidia w-album: “Rare, local and elusive in Hampshire’’. It may be of interest to record therefore, that on three small twigs (ca. 12 in. long) cut at random from a wych elm near Kings Somborne in mid- February, were 19 ova of this butterfly. I cut the twigs intend- ing to bring on the half-opened flower buds indoors in order to feed w-album larvae on the point of hatching from Dorset ova. The tree in question was the first of its kind located during an afternoon’s drive and it was only after I returned home and rather casually examined the twigs that I realised my find. A return visit a week later confirmed excellent numbers of eggs on other branches of the same tree and also on another about 200 yards away. A newly hatched larva was noted at the same time. The first tree, unfortunately, is doomed as one branch is affected with Dutch elm disease _which is rampant in the area. The other tree, as yet, seems healthy. — Dr. C. J. Luckens, 52 Thorold Road, Bitterne Park, Southampton, SO2 4JG. 150 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 LS /ViF7 Pug Moths in the Isle of Wight in 1976 By T. D. FEARNEHOUGH* The 1976 season was a favourable one for the pugs in this area, for not only were the moths about in greater numbers than usual, but also the larvae were remarkably free from the parasites which are prevalent amongst them in most years. The first specimen of the season was of Eupithecia abbreviata Steph., found at rest on a telephone pole at Ninham on 15th April. During this month larvae of E. tenuiata Hbn. were present in small numbers in sallow catkins at Alverstone. E. venosata F. seems to be a scarce species here, for attempts to find larvae in previous years have been unsuccessful. How- ever, on 18th June an isolated clump of bladder campion at Merston contained a larva in almost every seed head. The larvae were successfully reared on heads of red campion and were free from parasites. The usual few specimens of E. intricata arceuthata Freyer appeared at light in my garden during June. A specimen of E. tantillaria Boisd. was found on a spruce trunk on 16th June when searching for Thera variata D. & S. E. haworthiata Dbldy. was an exception to the general increase, for larvae of this species normally so common in the chalk region were very scarce. None could be found in several localities tried, but eventually three larvae were found on Clematis on Row Down on 29th July. Tapping along hedge- rows in June disturbed numerous EF. vulgata Haw., a few E. castigata Hbn. and a single specimen of E. fraxinata Crewe. Species which came to light in the garden in larger numbers than usual were: E. icterata de Villiers, E. centaureata L., E. vulgata, E. castigata and the Chloroclystis species coronata Hbn. and rectangulata L. Single specimens of E. tripunctaria H.-S. and E. sobrinata Hbn. also occurred. A specimen of E. expallidata Dbldy. came to light at Shanklin on 8th August. There appears to be no definite previous record for this species on the Island. I do not know of any locality for its foodplant in the neighbourhood. E. phoeniceata Rambur also came to light at Shanklin for the first time, but it has been recorded before on the Island at Freshwater by S. Knill-Jones. In all, four specimens were noted on 17th, 18th, 21st and 30th August. Only one specimen of EF. pulchellata Steph. came to light during the season, and searching for larvae of this species in various localities proved fruitless. Few specimens of E. absin- thiata Cl. were attracted to light, but an isolated clump of ragwort growing in a small open space in Rowlands Wood gave no fewer than 14 larvae, presumably all of this species. They were reared on Michaelmas Daisy flowers, but half of them contained parasites. * Drexel Cottage, 26 Green Lane, Shanklin, Isle of Wight. PUG MOTHS IN THE ISLE OF WIGHT IN 1976 151 A successful search for larvae of E. subnotata Hbn. was made at St. Helens on 5th September. They were found on plants of orache growing along the border of the salt marsh. These larvae proved to be free from parasites and were success- fully reared on flower sprays of Good King Henry, which was fortunately at hand in a neighbouring weedy garden. In early September a number of pug larvae were found on Michaelmas Daisy flowers. Several moths which emerged in October were those of G. pumilata Hbn. I ought to mention several unsuccessful searches that I made. The wonderful show of maple blossom in the spring tempted me to try for larvae of E. inturbata Hbn., which has never been recorded from the Island, but no larvae were forthcoming. Larvae of E. plumbeolata Haw. were recorded by Prout from Bordwood in 1908. The foodplant cow-wheat still grows there, but searching by daytime disturbance, dusking and for larvae having failed over several seasons, I fear the moth is no longer with us. A concentrated effort to find larvae of E. millefoliata Rossler has also been fruitless, although there is a record of a larva found on Tennyson Down some years ago. THE LARGE TORTOISESHELL (NYMPHALIS POLYCHLOROS L.). —Mr. H. J. Belsey in his account of the butterflies of the Dordogne (Ent. Rec., 89: 49-50), asks the explanation of the habit of the Large Tortoiseshell butterfly entering the house in midsummer. This is the regular habit of this univoltine species which, after a few days flight on hatching in late June, aestivates in hollow trees, old sheds, attics, etc., as quoted from Verity in my note on its life-history (Ent. Rec., 79: 243-5), reappears on the wing in late summer, then hibernates and oviposits in the following spring, truly a long imaginal stage! —E. P. WiLtsuire, 140 Marsham Court, Marsham Street, London, SWI1P 4JY. CLEPSIS RURINANA (L.) (=SEMIALBANA (GUENEE) IN SCOT- LAND. —In July 1975, some members of Imperial College made a Field Study of the Loch Ness area. Dr. Jim Brock had asked if I would identify some microlepidoptera which were collected there by Miss Anne Cameron. Among them I was very interested to find two specimens of Clepsis rurinana taken at Foyers. The identity of the more worn specimen was con- firmed by genitalia examination. In British Tortricoid Moths (1973) a Scottish record is confirmed from Argyll and there are mentioned unconfirmed records from Ayrshire, Renfrew- shire and Arran. In any event, this locality in Inverness represents a considerable extension northwards of the known ' Tange of the species. — Davip AGassiz, St. James’ Vicarage, 144 Hertford Road, Enfield, Middx. 132 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15 /V/07 Some Records of Migrant Lepidoptera in South Cumbria in 1976 By Dr. NEVILLE L. BIRKETT* 1976 will be long remembered for the many immigrant species of lepidoptera recorded. Much of this immigrant activity tends to fall away by the time north-west England is reached—so my records are not of any startling exotic discoveries. Vanessa atalanta (L.). The Red Admiral has been very com- mon in south Cumbria in the last two years. This year I saw the first specimen in Black Tom’s Lane, Witherslack, on 13th June. The following day I saw two examples in my garden at Kendal Wood on the outskirts of Kendal at an altitude of 630 feet. There then followed a gap in sightings until the first week of August when a few more were seen at Kendal Wood and from then until late September the species was seen nearly every day. The last specimens were seen on 24th October, when I observed one near Rydal Water, and a friend reported seeing one high in central Lakeland on the same sunny day. Cynthia cardui (L.). The Painted Lady never seems to be so frequent as the Red Admiral here. This year was no exception. The first one was observed at Kendal Wood on 10th August and I noted in my diary that a few were seen between 20th and 27th August in the same locality. Agrius convovuli (L.). A rather battered female of this hawk- moth was brought to me having been found by a patient, Mrs. J. Young, on her farm at Moss Side, Crosthwaite, near Kendal. It was captured on 18th August and duly released. Acherontia atropos (L.). On 19th August I received reports via Nurse Bracken, of Levens, of a large caterpillar having been found in a potato field at Halforth Farm, nr. Heversham. Two days later I was able to visit the owner of the farm, Mr. Wilson, who produced for me a full-fed larva of atropos almost literally rushing round the floor of a gold-fish bowl. On being put into a plant-pot with a suitable substratum this larva buried itself within ten minutes. A search of Mr. Wilson’s potato fields revealed no further larvae. They would have been difficult to see because the haulms were dried and discoloured due to the recent drought conditions. However, a fine pupa of atropos was brought to me from the same field on 13th September. The pupae were kept warm and damp and in late October the free-lying pupa emerged but failed to expand its wings. It did however provide suitable musical entertainment. The second pupa emerged, a fine female, on 23rd November. This second one to emerge, which had pupated normally in soil/peat mixture, rather surprised me. Two days before the moth ecloded, the pupa had worked itself up to the surface of the soil and lay free. Gentle palpation confirmed that it was alive, but it felt very flabby. However, the moth emerged and was a perfect specimen. I do not recall reading * Kendal Wood, New Hutton, nr. Kendal, Cumbria LA8 0AQ. MIGRANT LEPIDOPTERA IN SOUTH CUMBRIA IN 1976 153 of this habit of atropos pupae coming to the soil surface before emergence of the moth. Macroglossum stellatarum (L.). One specimen of this moth was seen at Kendal Wood on 14th August. Another specimen visited my son’s brightly coloured shirt in the same garden on 23rd August. I also have note of an observation by Mr. Ralph Stokoe who saw a specimen in his garden at Cockermouth. Agrotis ipsilon (Hufn.). First taken in the trap at Kendal Wood on 29th August. From then until mid-October it was a common visitor, especially in the middle fortnight of September. Autographa gamma (L.). First appeared in the trap at Kendal Wood on 12th June. From then on a few occurred each night, more or less, until the end of October. From late August to mid-October this species was extremely common flying about the garden in daylight, visiting various flowers. The species was much more common than usual this year. Udea ferrugalis (Hiibn.). Decidedly less common than usual. In fact, I recorded one specimen only in my trap on 18th August. The common “whites” were extremely plentiful during the late summer months and were a pest on the Brassicas. A very few each of Nomophila noctuella (D. & S.) and Plutella xylostella (L.) visited the trap here in late August. LITHOPHANE LEAUTIERI BoisD. — FURTHER RECORDS FROM East Sussex. —In confirmation of previous notes regarding the favourable season enjoyed by Blair’s Shoulder-knot during 1976 (Ent. Rec., 89:13, 16), I would like to report that my m.v. trap contained a total of seven of the species between September 25th and October 24th inclusive. These catches were preceded by a single example on October 7th, 1975, in the same area. — COLIN Pratt, ‘‘Oleander’’, 5 View Road, Peacehaven, Newhaven, Sussex. THE SAND Dart (AGROTIS RIPAE HBN.) IN LONDON. — After the night of 27th June, 1976, I was amazed to find in the m.v. trap in my garden a specimen of Agrotis ripae. Normally this species is never found at any distance from the coast. It was a night when moth populations were on the move, for in the same trap were my first two specimens from this area of Idaea vulpinaria atrosignaria Lempke; however, the most likely explanation must be that the ripae specimen was acci- dentally brought here in a vehicle. It was a worn specimen, taken on a Sunday night after a hot weekend and the favourite resorts with the local inhabitants are on the Essex coast where _ the species occurs. — Davip Aaassiz, St. James’ Vicarage, 144 Hertford Road, Enfield, Middx. 154 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/V/TT Metasyrphus nielseni D. & L. (Dipt.: Syrphidae) in the British Isles By MartTIN C. D. Speicut, Ph.D.* With the second part of the revision of European species of Metasyrphus by Dusek and Laska now published (see Dusek and Laska, 1976) it is possible to establish which Metasyrphus species occur in the British Isles. As of now, it would appear that the only name change involving known British Isles species concerns Syrphus arcuatus sensu Coe (1953). Dusek and Laska (/.c.) demonstrate that this is a hitherto unrecognised species, which they have named Meta- syrphus nielseni. According to their paper, the synonymy of this species is: — Metasyrphus nielseni D. & L., 1976. Syrphus arcuatus: Collin, 1931; Coe, 1953; nec Scaeva arcuata Fal., 1817. Posthosyrphus punctifer: WHippa, 1968; nec Syrphus punctifer Frey in Kanervo, 1934. This species is then the Metasyrphus “‘sp. indet.”’ of Pt. 5 of the 2nd edition of Kloet and Hincks (1976). M. nielseni is known at present from the Scottish Highlands, Scandinavia (except Denmark), as far as the extreme western edge of the U.S.S.R., Czechoslovakia, Austria and N. Italy. My own experience of the species would suggest that it is in Scotland largely confined to areas of old caledonian pine forest (Pinus sylvestris v. caledonicus). However, I have found it alongside a mature stand of planted P. sylvestris (a Forestry Commission enclosure) some way from any natural pine woods, so M. nielseni may now be extending its range somewhat in Scotland. If, as seems likely, Scottish populations of M. nielseni are associated with P. sylvestris, any dramatic extension of the range of this hover-fly in the British Isles would not seem likely, seeing that relatively little of this pine species is planted by the Forestry Commission. But Dusek and Laska (/.c.) do suggest that other pine species perhaps support M. nielsent in continental Europe. At present M. nielseni is known from the counties of Perth and Inverness. To these I can add Aber- deen: ¢, No. 2194 (Ballachlaggan, 22nd June, 1974, coll. M.C.D.S.; 2, No. 4794 (Glen Tanar), 21st June, 1974, coll. M.C.D.S. I have found the species at flowers of: Galium sp(p), Helianthemum nummulinum and Potentilla erecta, generally in rather open, park-like pine woodland. The second part of Dusek and Laska’s revision (.c.) contains a most useful key to European Metasyrphus species and it perhaps should be mentioned that some of the Meta- syrphus species as yet unrecorded in the British Isles could be present here, to judge from their known distribution. Further, various of the Metasyrphus involved are very similar in appearance to known British Isles species. * Research Branch, Forest and Wildlife Service, 2 Sidmonton Place, Bray, Co. Wicklow. METASYRPHUS NIELSENI D. & L. (DIPT.: SYRPHIDAE) 155 Acknowledgments I am mose grateful to Dr. Neil Bayfield (Brathens Research Station, ITE) for suggesting localities of interest which I might visit in Aberdeenshire during the course of my visit there in 1974. References Coe, R. L., 1953. Syrphidae, Diptera. Handbooks for the identification of British Insects, 10 (1), 98 pp. R. ent. Soc., London. Dusek, J. and Laska, P., 1973. Descriptions of five new European species of the genus Metasyrphus (Dipt., Syrphidae), with notes on variation within the species. Acta ent. bohemoslov., 70: 415-429. Dusek, J. and Laska, P., 1976. European species of Metasyrphus: key, descriptions and notes (Dipt., Syrphidae). Acta ent. bohemoslov., 73: 263-282. Kloet, G. S. and Hincks, W. D., 1976. Diptera and Siphonaptera. Hand- books for the identification of British Insects, 11 (5), 139 pp. R. ent. Soc., London. A CAMBERWELL BEAUTY AFTER HIBERNATION IN WORCES- SHIRE. — On 3rd April, 1977 a Camberwell Beauty was seen on the Upton Warren Nature Reserve, three miles S.W. of Bromsgrove, by Mr. A. F. Jacobs, the Warden of the Reserve. It was flying along a ditch adjacent to a row of willows. I think this is the first occasion this century that the species has been seen in Worcestershire after hibernation. — J. E. GREEN, 25 Knoll Lane, Malvern, Worcs., WR14 3JU. THE CAMBERWELL BEAUTY IN WARWICKSHIRE IN APRIL 1977. — One was seen in the garden here on 4th April (Map ref. SP 385897). It alighted on a window sill for about a minute and an excellent close view of the characteristics was obtained. — E. A. Hoare, M.R.C.P.Ed., D.P.H., 28 Bulking- ton Lane, Nuneaton. THE CAMBERWELL BEAUTY IN WESTMORLAND IN APRIL 1977. — One was seen at noon on 15th April basking in the sun below Nab Scar, Rydal Water, by Mr. Roger Beeby of 168 Knighton Church Road, Leicester. — J. HEATu, Institute of Terrestrial Ecology, Abbots Ripton, Huntingdon. 156 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 1S {NV /77 The Polyphagous Habits of Polygonia c-album (L.) By P. J. BAKER* In my youth, which was spent in South London, I always associated the larvae of the Comma butterfly (Polygonia c-album (L.)) with stinging nettles. Doubtless they were also to be found on others of their recorded range of foodplants but, nevertheless, much searching on Mitcham Common, the Watermeads and an abandoned smallholding, showed the Urtica species to be the most obvious pabulum. When I move to north-west Surrey in 1969, I soon found that P. c-album was quite a common butterfly locally. How- ever, extensive searching of the abundant nettles in the neigh- bourhood over the next few years resulted in not a single larva being found. In spite of this, the Comma remained common and, in 1971, it was quite abundant in both broods. The answer came in May 1972, when a Comma was noted Ovipositing on a five-metre high sapling of one of the Ulmus species, which was growing a little apart from an adjacent hedgerow. Thereafter, Commas were regularly seen egg-laying on somewhat isolated elm saplings and bushes up to about seven metres in height. It was quite easy to find larvae and even ova if a suitable elm was examined. All that was necessary was to look at the foliage against a bright sky, when the outline of quite small larvae could be easily detected. (Note that this collecting method is also applicable to the larvae of Cosmia affinis (L.) and C. pyralina (D. & S.), although for some reason I have never found C. diffinis (L.) in this way, even when checking hedgerows which are purported to be a suitable habitat for this latter species.) By mid-1974 all suitable elms in this area had fallen victim to the Dutch Elm Disease but, although the larvae could not be found on alternative foodplants, the butterfly continued to be quite common. In the middle of 1976, my wife was kept busy clearing our gooseberry bushes (Ribes uva—crispa (L.)) of the many larvae with which they were infested. Two such larvae—which were not immediately recognised—duly produced rather dark imagines of the Comma butterfly. Further larvae were found over the next two months. Quite by chance I happened to observe more Comma caterpillars on the sallow (Salix spp.) in the garden, and further examples were obtained when working local hop vines (Humulus lupulus (L.) for Hypena rostralis (L.)). Both the gooseberries, the sallow and the hops have been regularly worked or checked over the last few years, and this is the first occasion on which Comma larvae have been found thereon. It therefore seems highly likely that we have wit- nessed a definite and recent change in the habits of the local population of this insect. Although many of the early authors mention the above range of plant species as being likely pabula for the Comma, this is my first experience of any other * Mount Vale, The Drive, Virginia Water, Surrey. THE POLYPHAGOUS HABITS OF POLYGONIA C-ALBUM £57 than Urtica and Ulmus spp. It would be very interesting to hear from other readers about this subject now that the elms are dead and dying over such a large part of the country. References Meyrick, E., 1927. Revised Handbook of British Lepidoptera. South, R., 1945. Butterflies of the British Isles. Tutt, J. W., 1901-05. Practical Hints for the Field Lepidopterist. STICTOPERA PERNIGRA LEGRAND: A LITTLE-KNOWN NOCTUID MOTH FROM THE SEYCHELLES ISLANDS. — I spent the period November 6th to 14th, 1976 on Mahé, the largest of the Seychelles archipelago, attending the 4th Pan-African Orni- thological Congress. We were some 269 delegates all housed in the spacious Mahé Beach Hotel, opened a year previously on the west coast of the island. My bedroom was on the seventh floor overlooking the sea. On the balcony was a fairly bright light which I put on each night at dusk, which fell about 7 p.m. On the 9th, there was quite an attendance of insects among which was a fairly large noctuid with rather narrow forewings and in very fresh condition. It was not until three months later that I showed it to Mr. Alan Hayes at the Natural History Museum. He at once recognised it as the species designated above, of which very few specimens are Known with only a single damaged example from the Percy- Sladen Expedition of 1908, a male, in the National collection. M. Legrand in his large monograph, Lépidopteéres des iles Seychelles et d’Aldabra (1965) describes this insect as a form of the Madagascan species Stictoptera antemarginata Saal- miller, though it seems to have close affinities with the wide- spread and very variable eastern species S. cucullioides Guenée. But S. pernigra differs superficially very materially from these other two insects, since its hindwings are very suffused with hardly any hyaline space apparent, whereas the somewhat similar two Stictoptera have a very large hyaline space with a very well-defined black border to the hindwings. These points are strong evidence for considering the Seychelles insect as a separate species. Legrand cites two males taken by the late Sir John Fryer in 1912 on ile Félicité, with a further two from Beau Vallon on Mahé in 1959, a single example from Silhouette island, also in 1959, and another from Beau Vallon in 1960 taken by M. Gerber. These seem to be the only other records of this moth with all these recent captures in the Paris Museum. Mr. Hayes has shown me coloured transparencies of two of the Paris examples, which have somewhat different markings on the forewings from my specimen. Another endemic species I also took at this balcony light, was a perfect female of the large striking pyralid Cirrhichrista mulleralis Legrand, with its silvery white forewings blotched with orange markings. —C. G. M. DE Worms, Three Oaks, Woking. 158 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15 /V/F7 Butterflies in Majorca — Supplement By M. J. PERCEVAL, F.R.E.S.* Following my notes on the butterflies of Majorca published in The Record two years ago, additional information on certain species has now become available. Lasiommata megera L. Some confusion seems to exist concerning the status of “intermedia Muschamp’’. Manley and Allcard (1970) refer to it as an aberration, while Bustillo and Rubio (1974) treat it as a subspecies. The original description by Muschamp (1904) is as follows: ‘“‘Pararge megeara (15 specimens). Wing rounder than in type as in Corsican var. tigelius; size of latter with exception of one male that is only a little smaller than type; markings heavier than those of tigelius, but not quite so pronounced as in type; underside colouring like normal Swiss insect. . . . The general appearance of this butterfly, inspite of its heavy markings, is that of tigelius. It was only when I confronted it with the Corsican insect that I discovered that I had not netted a series of ¢igelius. It is evidently an intermediate form, and as such I have named it Pararge megaera ab. intermedia.” It is clear from this description that Muschamp was referring to his series as a whole and thus, if it was represen- tative of the species in the island, Bustillo and Rubio could be correct in treating it as a subspecies. In fact, however, I can only conclude that Muschamp’s series was exceptional as it is not typical of the present population of megera in Majorca. Since completing my original paper I have had the oppor- tunity of examining a series of megera taken by Dr. L. G. Higgins during a visit to the island in April 1975, and I am indebted to him for providing me with specimens. This series is quite ordinary, although on the small side, and I can only agree with Dr. Higgin’s own view that none of his specimens could be considered as intermediate between megera and paramegaera (tigelius). There would seem to be no justification for considering Majorcan megera as a Separate subspecies. Intermedia is an occasional aberration and specimens as extreme as that illus- trated by Manley and Allcard appear to be very uncommon. The main characteristic of Majorcan specimens is their small size, a feature I have already referred to in respect of a number of other species from the island. Gegenes nostrodamus F. I listed the occurrence of this species on the island as doubtful as I could find only one reference to it, a single speci- men taken in 1932, more than 40 years ago. Its presence in Majorca can now, however, be confirmed as I am informed by Mr. T. G. Howarth that he took a single male at Puerto Soller in May 1971. * Holmesdale Cottage, Bonds Lane, Mid-Holmwood, Dorking, Surrey, RHS 4HF. NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS 159 Pieris brassicae L. This species would seem to be more numerous than I perhaps indicated, as Mr. H. G. Allcard tells me that he found it commonly in the vegetable growing area inland of Palma. He also comments on its small size. Artogeia napi L. In the postscript to my paper I noted the inclusion of A. napi as a Majorcan species by Bustillo and Rubio (1974). Sefior M. R. Gomez Bustillo has now informed me, however, that this has subsequently been found to be an error due to the incorrect identification of a single female which was in fact A. rapae L. References Bustillo, M. R. G. and Rubio, F. F., 1974. Mariposas de la Peninsula Iberica. Madrid. Manley, W. B. L. and Allcard, H. G., 1970. A Field Guide to the Butterflies and Burnets of Spain. Muschamp, P. A. H., 1904. Majorca — Eight Days Entomology, Two New Butterfly Aberrations. Ent. Rec., 16: 221-223. Perceval, M. J., 1974. Butterflies of Majorca. Ent. Rec., 86: 225-234. Notes and Observations EUDEMIS PORPHYRANA (HUEBNER) NEW TO KENT. — A single specimen of this Tortricid appeared in the m.v. trap in my garden here on the night of August 4th/5th, 1976. So far as I am aware this is the first record of this species for Kent. The moth appears to have been first recognised as British in 1915 from Devon and Herefordshire, whence it seems to have extended its range eastwards. — J. M. CHALMERS-HUNT. APOMYELOIS BISTRIATELLA NEOPHANES (DURRANT, 1915) (LeEp.: PYRALIDAE) IN WALES. — I would like, rather belatedly, to record breeding this moth in September 1974 from a larva that I found in Daldinia concentrica on Ulex, on sea cliffs near Oxwich, Gower Peninsula, Glamorgan. I have not heard of any other South Wales records for this species. — Dr. A. N. B. Simpson, 29 The Greenway, Colletts Green, Powick, near Worcester. THE CONVOLVULUS HAwkK IN Hants. — On 22nd Sepiem- ber, 1976, I discovered a male Agrius convolvuli L. clinging to the bottom of a sheet hanging near the m.v. trap in my garden, and on the following morning a further male was found in almost exactly the same place. Later that evening, my son found yet another male on the ground about six feet from the trap. Apparently it had been there all day but had fortunately avoided the attentions of the birds. I was also given a dead convolvuli which had been found on the wall of a house - at Burridge, near Southampton, on 22nd September. — D. A. LEPARD, Silver Crest, Silver Street, Sway, Lymington, Hants. 160 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/V/77 Current Literature The Lepidopterist’s Handbook by Richard Dickson. The Amateur Entomologist’s Society. 138 pp., 52 illustrations. Stiff wrappers. 1976. £3.00. There is a number of guides to the lepidoptera similar in content to the one under review, though mostly somewhat sketchy in nature and more than 50 years old. Until publica- tion of Dr. Dickson’s Handbook, the most notable of these was perhaps H. G. Knaggs’ Lepidopterist’s Guide (1869), last issued in 1901 as a third edition, so that a modern guide has long been a desideratum. The Handbook consists of 11 chapters arranged in four sections as under: (1) Fieldwork and further field methods; (2) Breeding: adult to egg; caterpillars; pupae; (3) Work on specimens: the collection-preparation and housing; identifica- tion; (4) Recording and photography. Then follow four appendices: (1) Entomological suppliers and societies; (2) Books and magazines; (3) Glossary; (4) Code for insect collecting. The book concludes with an alphabetically arranged index of the English names of insects referred to in the text. This book is replete with useful information both for the tyro and old hand, and having read it from cover to cover, I can strongly recommend it. One of my few criticisms, how- ever, is that the author appears to cater too much for the pure collector and too little for the observer-cum-collector. For instance, in one passage he discourages searching for larvae of the macrolepidoptera, but exhorts the use of the lamp whereby moths may be lured “‘in their droves” (see p. 17). Nowadays, most moth hunters use light—admittedly a very productive means of collecting—but all too often to the exclusion of other methods that would tell us more about an insect’s habits and early stages in the wild. Pioneering is necessary if we are to make important new discoveries, and in the next edition of the Handbook, a chapter highlighting some of the significant gaps in our knowledge would be welcomed. No one for example has ever found the larva of the Reddish Light Arches (A pamea sublustris Esp.); the larva of the common Flame Carpet (Xanthorhoe designata Hufn.) in nature is as yet unknown; and many aspects of the early stages of some of our commonest British lepidoptera are still shrouded in mystery. The book is well illustrated, the printing and paper are satisfactory and the price quite reasonable by present day standards. — J.M.C.-H. ENTOMOLOGICAL CABINETS We are the sole manufacturers of ‘HILL’? INTERCHANGEABLE UNIT SYSTEMS 10 drawer Standard units 20 drawer Oxford units GRANGE AND GRIFFITHS LIMITED Scientific Cabinet Makers Woodstock Works, 239 Hanworth Road Hounslow, Middlesex, TW3 3UA, England Telephone: 01-570 0426 and 01-570 3209 THE SARUMAN MUSEUM Incorporating: The Butterfly Sanctuary — Saruman Butterflies Saruman Photographic Agency — The Butterfly Centre Specialists in British and World Lepidoptera and Entomologica Equipment — Literature — Livestock — Photographs Directors: Paul Smart F.R.E.S., Gita Smart, F.R.E.S. Consultant: John Muirhead Technical staff: Trevor Scott F.R.ES., Chris Samson F.R.E.S. fy A BECKLEY, RYE, SUSSEX, TN13 6S Tel.: Beckley (079 726) 279 Open to visitors daily. 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Postage refunded and an appropriate fee payable. — Please telephone or write: Derek Anderson, BBC, Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 2LR (Telephone: 32211). Larvae of Ouropteryx sambucaria, Geometra papilionaria, Lycia hirtaria, Biston strataria, B. betularia, Crocallis elinguaria or any other species of the larger Geometridae; larvae of any of the Lasio- campidae, Lymantriidae, Arctiidae and Notodontidae (including Cerura vinula and Stauropus fagi); also larvae of Polygonia c-album and Inarchis io. Urgently Wanted. — For laboratory experiments, pupae of Biston betularia, preferably f. typica. Pay or exchange. — Dr. H. B. D. Kettlewell, Dept. of Zoology, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS. Wanted Urgently for research — ova of Eupithecinae (Pugs). All costs refunded. — G. Prior, 23 Manor Way, North Harrow, Middlesex (Tel.: 01-863 2132). Purple Emperor Project wants new observers. — Offers and information from: K. J. Wilmott, 34 Daybrook Road, Merton Park, London, SW19 3DH. For Sale. — F. 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All reasonable care is taken of MSS, photographs, drawings, maps, etc., but the Editor and his staff cannot hold themselves responsible for any loss or damage. SPECIAL NOTICE The Editor would be willing to consider the purchase of a limited number of certain back issues. CONTENTS | The Occurrence of Agrius convolvuli L. in 1976 as Recorded from Peacehaven, Sussex. COLIN PRATT Collecting in Seneca, seme iy and awit 1976. nM G. M. de WORMS Strange Visitors to a winiliedat ON, M. J. STERLING The Identity of Anisolabis kudagae Burr (Dermaptera: Carcino- phoridae), and a Description of a New aero of Anisolabis from. Sri Lanka. A. BRINDLE .. rd Swarming in Opetia nigra Mg. (Diptera: Plo aedasy ‘aaa the. Capture of a Female. IAN McLEAN Pug Moths in the Isle of Wight in 1976. T. D. FEARNEHOUGH . Some Records of Migrant Lepidoptera in South Cumbria in 1976. Dr. NEVILLE L. BIRKETT Metasyrphus nielseni (Diptera: Sprphidae) | in the British Isles. MARTIN C. D. SPEIGHT . The Polyphagous Habits of ice A BES L). P. J. BAKER . Butterflies in Majorca — Supplement. M. J. PERCEVAL ... Notes and Observations: The Grizzled Skipper (Pyrgus malvae L.) on the Isle of Sheepey: | Kent: GEOFFREY N. BURTON ... Hyles lineata livornica Esp. (Striped Hakecens: and er sylvata Scop. (Clouded Magpie). P. J. CRAMP . Some Unusual Dates at nei oa 1976). Gy RA: de WORMS 3 Strymonidia w-album Knoch in Hampshire. Dr. C. J. LUCKENS The Large Tortoiseshell heures Siete: mi | eal ot WILTSHIRE La Clepsis rurinana (L.) (= semialbana (Guen > in sid tuidity DAVID AGASSIZ a a, sit Lithophane_ leautieri Boisd.— Further Records from East Sussex. COLIN PRATT The Sand Dart deg ripae ae in London. oa AGASSIZ ... A Camberwell Beauty after Hibernation in Worcestershire. J) By GREEN |) ..% The Camberwell ey in Warwickshire in n April 1977. E. A. HOARE. ...... The Camberwell aan in Westmorland in Apri RT 7 Pata: HBBATH ) 35. 48 Stictopera pernigra renee, a little-known noctuid moth from the Seychelles Islands. C. G. M. de WORMS Eudemis porphyrana (Huebner) New to Kent. J. M. CHALMERS-HUNT i a ah bid Bf Apomyelois bistriatella sh ton Cea in Wales. Dr. A. N. B. SIMPSON _. iy ie + The Convolvulus Hawk in Hants. D. A. LEPARD ... Current Literature ... Printed by Charles Phipps Ltd., 225 Philip Lane, Tottenham, N15 4HL 129 135 141 145 148 150 152 154 156 158 140 140 144 149 151 151 153 153 155 155 155 157 159 159 159 160 VOL. 89, No. 6 June, 1977 ISSN 0013-8916 ee ee si SS So 2 ee AKA A KGAA ASG ff fF ff ff Of Of fF LK KL As tao MONTHLY Wii ie COMP. ZOOL. La é Af ra Sie ae SR. a THE OCT 1 1980 ENTOMOLOGIST’S""” RECORD AND JOURNAL OF VARIATION Edited by J. M. CHALMERS-HUNT, F.R.£.s. with the assistance of A. A. ALLEN, B.SC., A.R.C.S. C. A. COLLINGWOOD, B.SC., F.R.E.S. NEVILLE BIRKETT, M.A., M.B. H. C. HUGGINS, F.R.E.S. S. N. A. JAcoss, F.R.E.S. (Registrar) Lieut. Col. A. M. EMMET, M.B.E., T.D., F.R.E.S. H. B. D. KETTLEWELL, M.A., M.B., B.CHIR., D.SC., L.R.C.P., F.R.E.S. ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION FOR THIS VOLUME No. 89 £6.50 to all U.K. subscribers. £7.50 all overseas subscribers. Is now due and should be paid to Hon. Treasurer: P. J. RENSHAW, 53 Links Road, West Wickham, Kent, BR4 0QN Gee ILI IIIS ISI IES IIIS SEES S'S: SSG GG THE LIVING SEASHORE By Joan M. Clayton The seashore provides a very distinctive environ- ment, supporting a greater number of living things than any other habitat. This book deals with the rich variety of flora and fauna associated with the sea- shore. 32 pages of plates in colour and black and é@ white with numerous line rg a drawings and diagrams * \Y within the text. £6.00 net. FRESHWATER LIFE By John Clegg This is the fourth edition of the popular volume on the plant and animal life in Britain’s ponds, lakes, streams and rivers. The life dealt with q@ { ranges from the unicellular ws { organisms through vertebrates ‘SQ and flowering plants. [IIlus- trated with 64 plates “er ide af Oy in colour and ‘black , Tee feo ae and white, plus line Wr oo @ drawings within the Ko OS _ text. £6.00 net. : MEL Guy = So SS FREDERICK WARNE (Publishers) LTD., 40 Bedford Square, London WC1B 3HE. EXOTIC ENTOMOLOGICAL SPECIMENS Lepidoptera — Coleoptera — Miscellaneous Insects Livestock of Saturniidae, etc. Please write for details of our Lists, etc. R. N. BAXTER 16 Bective Road, Forest Gate London, E7 ODP, England For a personal and interested service Member of the Entomological Suppliers’ Association AURELIAN BOOKS Antiquarian, Recent and New Books on Insects and Allied Subjects bought and supplied—please advise us of your wants. 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For full details of publications and activities, please write (enclosing 5p stamp to cover postage) to:— R. D. HILLIARD, Hon. Advertising Secretary, A.E.S., 18 Golf Close, Stanmore, Middlesex. BRITISH NATURALISTS’ ASSOCIATION has twenty active branches in Britain and a world-wide membership. It’s official organ, Country-Side (published three times a year), is the oldest-established British magazine devoted to general natural history Membership subscription £1.50 per annum Full details and application form (s.a.e.) obtainable from: B.N.A., ‘Willowfield’, Boyneswood Rd., Four Marks, Alton, Hants THE NATURALIST (founded 1875) A Quarterly Illustrated Journal of Natural History Edited by M. R. D. SEAWARD, M.Sc., Ph.D. Annual subscription: £4.00 (post free) Single numbers £1.00 Separates of the collected instalments of the:— LEPIDOPTERA OF YORKSHIRE (Macrolepidoptera) which appeared serially in The Naturalist (1967-1970) are also available on application. Price 50p plus 9p postage Also MARCROLEPIDOPTERA OF SPURN HEAD, E. YORKSHIRE (The Naturalist 1974). Price 25p, plus 64p postage The Editor of the Naturalist, University of Bradford, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD7 1DP 161 Notes on some British Phoridae (Diptera) including Two Species of Megaselia Rondani New to Science By KENNETH G. V. SMITH* The publication of the revised Diptera section of the British Check List (Colyer and Smith, 1976) necessitates some comments on the Phoridae. The initiai manuscript for the Check List was submitted by the late Charles Colyer on 30th June, 1967, and revised for publication by myself. Some of the species included there have not been formally added to the British List. Furthermore, two new species of Megaselia which Colyer had recognised in manuscript are here described and illustrated so that they can be included in the Phoridae volume of Lindner’s Die Fliegen der Palaearktischen Region (Schmitz, Beyer, Delage, 1938-) now being completed by Dr. Francoise-Alix Delage. The species discussed here are, in the main, those recently discovered or recognised as British; purely nomenclatorial changes that are clear enough in the revised Kloet & Hincks are omitted. As there are as yet no adequate published keys to the British fauna, the original description of each species is cited. The keys in Lindner’s Die Fliegen . . . (Schmitz et al. 1938-) are of course invaluable, but incomplete. METOPINIINAE Megaselia (e.g. Aphiochaeta) communiformis Schmitz Described from Holland (Schmitz, 1918) and now widely recorded in Europe, is known from only two British speci- mens: Suffolk, Orford, 3.viii.1908, 2, J. J. F. X. King; Hamp- shire, Outwick, 8.1x.1952, ¢, C. N. Colyer. Megaselia (A.) curvicapilla Schmitz This species was described from Austria (Schmitz, 1947) and only two British specimens are known: Suffolk, Orford, 20.vii.1908, ¢, J. J. F. X. King; Hampshire, Ridley Wood, 15.vi.1949, @, C. N. Colyer. Megaselia (Aphiochaeta) dipsacosa sp. n. é. Frons broader than high at the eye-margin (7:4) but considerably produced anteriorly at the middle; dull blackish with thick greyish dusting, Fine hairs thickly distributed and rather long on the anterior margin, especially between the supra-antennal bristles. Frontal bristles very robust; antials standing a little lower than the anterolaterals and much nearer to them than to the upper supra-antennals. Supra-antennals equal and very strong, the upper not quite as far apart as the praeocellars, the lower only half as far apart. Mediolaterals and praeocellars almost in a straight row, only very slightly convex anteriorly. Third antennal segment somewhat large, brownish-black; arista very noticeably pubescent. Palpi (fig. 1) clear yellow, somewhat long and narrow, with pointed apex; * Department of Entomology, British Museum (Nat. Hist.), London. 162 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/V1/77 with six black bristles, four long, two much shorter, about one half to one third of the length of the others. The longer bristles at least twice the greatest width of the palp. Some- times, also, a tiny hair-like ventral bristle near the middle. Thorax greyish black, somewhat shining. The major bristles and dorsal pubescence black, the latter appearing pale brown in intense light and thickly set, becoming longer posteriorly to give a very hirsute appearance just before the scutellum, the hairs between the pair of pre-scutellar dorso- centrals being almost half as long as them (reminiscent of vestita Wood). Pleura greyish-black, dull, but with shining brownish-black areas on the lower part of the mesopleura and sternopleura. Mesopleura with about five slender bristles on the upper posterior corner, not easily discerned without close scrutiny. Scutellum two bristled, with a pair of tiny anterior hairs. Abdomen long, narrow, black with greyish dusting, the hind margins of the tergites with paler seams, dirty greyish yellow, not so readily noticeable as in verralli (Wood). Venter black. Tergite 2 nearly one and a half times as long as tergite 3 and 3-6 approximately of the same length. Hairs on hind- margins of segments 2-5 short, but on the sides and hind- margin of 6 rather long, particularly ventrally. Hypopygium (figs. 2, 3) small, deeper than long, produced downwards to a rounded point on each side, the outline concave just below the anal tube; asymmetrical, the left claspers blunter than the right, i.e. the left rounded apically and the right more triangu- larly pointed. A few longish hairs on the sides anteriorly and on the lower margins and on the apex of each side a dense bunch of marginal bristles of a quite characteristic appearance, the posterior ones bent backwards at almost a right angle at the tip. Ventral plate blackish, short, somewhat spatulate, not usually evident. In some individuals, the internal copulatory organs exerted in varying degree; the two long curved narrow shining blackish processes being visible. Anal tube long, twice as long as the maximum height, the base narrowed, and the ventrite somewhat pointed, greyish, the apex somewhat paler yellowish-grey; all hairs on anal tube strong and the terminal hairs prominent. Legs: forelegs, including the coxae, pale yellowish brown; mid-legs, excluding the coxae, likewise; hindlegs darker, glossy brownish. Fore tibiae just a little shorter than the combined length of the first three tarsal segments, which appear in one aspect somewhat stout; all fore tarsal segments progressively diminishing in width so that the apical is quite small. Basi- ventral hairs on femur 3 short, fine, decumbent, about 8-9 on basal third. Dorsal seam on tibia 3 evenly curved; posterodorsal cilia short and fine, about 15 in evidence in side view. Wings (fig. 4) faintly greyish-tinged, veins brownish, the thin veins well pigmented. Outline rather broad, the anal angle more or less rectangular as in pusilla Meigen. Costal index 0.43; ratios of sections 24: 7: 7; 1 therefore more than one and a half times 2 + 3. Angle at fork a little acute, but the lumen NOTES ON SOME BRITISH PHORIDAE (DIPTERA) 163 not small. Costal cilia fairly long (0.132 mm.), about 14 from the humeral cross vein, 5 in one row and four in the other, standing on 2+ 3. Vein 4 arising beyond the fork, origin obliterated, evenly curved throughout, very slightly recurved at the apex. Halteres, including the peduncle, black. Length: 1.5-2.1 mm.; most specimens 1.5- 1.6 mm. ?. A single female taken at the same time agrees well with the male, except that the third antennal segment appears relatively smaller and the lower supra-antennals appear rela- tively somewhat weaker. The first three fore-tarsal segments also a little stout in one aspect. Length: 1.6 mm. Holotype ¢, Paratypes 18 ¢, 1 °, Hertfordshire, Oughton Head, Hitchin, Herts, 2.vii.66, swept by fallen tree on bank of stream, C. N. Colyer. In British Museum (Nat. Hist.), except for 2 ¢ presented to Dr. F.-A. Delage. This species clearly has affinities with latifrons (Wood), crinita Schmitz, cirratula Schmitz, cirricauda Colyer and criniticauda Colyer, and is also near pusilla (Meigen). From all of these (in the male) it is distinguishable by the characteristic hypopygium and by the annal angle of the wing in both sexes from all except pusilla. From pusilla it may be distinguished also by the clear yellow palpi, save that occasional specimens of pusilla appear with paler palpi, but pusilla is a much deeper black insect altogether in general colouration. M. (A.) fuscipalpis Lundbeck This species was described from Denmark. Earlier deter- minations of British material by Colyer proved to be diversa when checked by Schmitz. However, Colyer indicated inclusion of this as British on a single male: Somerset, Weston-super- Mare, 4.v.1957, E. A. Fonseca. This compared favourably with material from Lithuania. Colyer also had material from Estonia, Norway and Sweden (see Andersson 1971 for last). M. (A.) hibernans Schmitz (1934, 1935). According to Schmitz (1934) this species overwinters as adults in rabbit-burrows. It was described from Utrecht (Schmitz, 1935) and the following British specimens are known. Hampshire: Brook, 29.i1i1.1968, 2, C. N. Colyer; New Forest, Rhinefield, 29.11.1968, ¢, C. N. Colyer. Hertfordshire: Oughton Head, 15.iv.1967, ¢ 2, 1.vi.1968, 2, C. N. Colyer; Aldbury, 30.iv.1966, ¢, C. N. Colyer. M. (A.) ignobilis Schmitz This species was described from Finland (Schmitz, 1919) and is known in Britain as follows. Hampshire: Brockenhurst, several dates in vii.1907, ¢ 4, J. J. F. X. King; New Forest, Denny Wood, 25.viii.1953, ¢, Burley, 30.vii.1953, 5 4, C. N. Colyer. Hertfordshire: New Barnet, 27.vi.1965, ¢, C. N. Colyer. M. (A.) indifferens Lundbeck This species was originally described from Denmark (Lundbeck, 1920) and has since been recorded from Sweden and Finland (Andersson, 1971). It is known from only one ' British locality. Scotland, Ross and Cromarty [Highland]: Dingwall, 5.vii.1909, 2, 29.vii.1909, 2, J. J. F. X. King. 164 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/VU/77 M. (A.) pollex Schmitz Originally described from Spain (Schmitz, 1937) it has since been found in Portugal and Parmenter (1966) recorded it from Blean Woods in Kent, 27.v.1964. M. (A.) raetica Schmitz Parmenter (1965, mis-spelt as ractica) added this species to the British List rather prematurely as Colyer was not confident of the determination. In his ms. files Colyer made a later insertion ‘1967, doubtful— see anal angle and vein 4 origin’. He was sufficiently unsure not to include the species in his original ms. for the revised Kloet & Hincks. M. (A.) subfraudulenta Schmitz This species was described from Holland (Schmitz, 1933) and later recorded from Sweden (Andersson, 1971). It was included in Colyer’s manuscript list of British species, but as yet I have found no British record. Possibly it was added erroneously by Colyer when he identified Andersson’s Swedish material. M. (A.) sordescens Schmitz Described from Holland (Schmitz, 1927), the only British records are from Scotland, Inverness: Nethy Bridge, various dates vi, vii. 1922-1923; Fort William: viii, 1921-1922, J. J. F. X. King. M. (A.) subnitida Lundbeck Described from Denmark (Lundbeck, 1920), this species is known in Britain from only two males in the British Museum (Nat. Hist.). Scotland, Inverness (Highland): Nethy Bridge, 17.vi.1922, J. J. F. X. King; Ross and Cromarty (Highland): Dingwall, 14.viii.1909, J. J. F. X. King. M. (A.) superciliata Wood (=consimilis Lundbeck) This synonymy has been established by Schmitz and Beyer (1974, Fliegen Palaearkt. Reg., 33: 630). M. (A.) tergata Lundbeck Described from Denmark (Lundbeck, 1920, 1922) only the female was known until Colyer (1959) found both sexes in Britain (Delamere Forest, Cheshire, 31.v.1958). Since then he has found a further male at New Barnet, Herts., in 1964. A key to Palaearctic Aphiochaeta is given by Schmitz, Beyer and Delage (1965). Megaselia (s.g. Megaselia) flammula Schmitz I can find no British provenance for this species, although Colyer included it in his manuscript list. It was described from Lapland (Schmitz, 1928) and later recorded from Sweden (Andersson, 1971). M. (M.) curvivenia Schmitz Described from Finland (Schmitz, 1928), Colyer (1969) has also found it in Spain and England. Its known British distri- bution is now as follows. Scotland, Inverness: Nethy Bridge, 5.vii.1910, 2, J. J. F. X. King; England, Hertfordshire: Simondshyde, 6.vi.1949, 2°, C. N. Colyer. M. (M.) largifrontalis Schmitz This species was described from Portugal (Schmitz, 1939) NOTES ON SOME BRITISH PHORIDAE (DIPTERA) 165 and is also known from Germany, Holland, Yugoslavia, Estonia and Spain. Parmenter (1966) first recorded British examples from Surrey: Headly, 11.vi.[19?] and other records are: Gloucestershire: Forest of Dean, 14.vi.1959, 2, C. N. Colyer; Hertfordshire: New Barnet, 19.vii.1964, ¢, 28.vi.1965, ¢, Oughton Head, 22.vi.1967, ¢ (all C. N. Colyer); Berkshire: Tubney Wood, 20.iv.1957, ¢, E. A. Fonseca; Derbyshire: Langley Mill, 11.vii.1967, ¢, M. B. Green; Warwickshire: Minworth, 26.vii.1967, 6, M. B. Green. M. (M.) longifurca Lundbeck Described from Denmark (Lundbeck, 1921) this species can be recorded from Britain as follows: Westmorland: Garri- gill Nature Reserve, Moor House Reserve, 19, 31.111.1964, ¢, 23.x.1965, ¢ (both ex “‘pulicaris’”?) J. M. Nelson. Hampshire: New Forest, Rhinefield, 29.i11.1968, ¢ 2, C. N. Colyer; Hert- fordshire: Oughton Head, 20.iv.1968, ¢, C. N. Colyer. M. (M.) luminosa Schmitz Schmitz (1962) described this species from Holland and noted its occurrence via various misidentifications from Fin- land, Austria and England. This is the species keyed as M. minor (Zett.) by Wood (1909: 28) and recorded by him from Hereford. It can also be recorded in Britain from Suffolk: Orford, 19.viii.1908, 2, J. J. F. X. King. Buckinghamshire: Seer Green, 11.ix.1933, 2, E. B. Basden. Scotland, Inverness: Fort William, 15.viii.1921, 6, J. J. F. X: King. Megaselia (s.g. Megaselia) setulifera sp. n. 2. Frons much broader than high (about 5:3) black, almost dull, a faint reflection apparent; ground hairs very weak, frontal bristles very large and robust. Antials a little closer to anterolaterals than to upper supra-antennals. Supra- antennals unequal, the lower much thinner and only a little more than half the length of the upper, which are set con- siderably closer together than the praeccellars; two or three noticeably strong ground hairs set between the upper supra- antennals and the antials. Antennae somewhat large, blackish- brown, thickly pubescent; arista also thickly pubescent. Palpi dark, brownish, with five robust bristles, and two shorter ones posteriorly to them at about the middle. Thorax black, with brownish pubescence, shining in strong lighting; pleura somewhat more brownish, especially anteriorly, with a small palish area at the humeri; shining brownish in the lower area between the fore and mid-coxae; mesopleura bare. Scutellum two bristled. Abdomen black, somewhat shining, the hairs longish only on the lateral margins, especially the second segment, also on the hind-margin of the sixth. Segment II longer and wider than the remainder and somewhat constricted anteriorly, seg- ments III, IV and V of about equal length and gradually decreasing in width; segment VI much narrower anteriorly than the hind margin of V, and a little longer than V, tapering fairly quickly to a truncated hind-margin with rounded hind- ' apical corners; segments VII and VIII tubular, chitinised; cerci paler with rather long hairs. Venter black. 166 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 SVT? Legs, with the exception of the paler fore-coxae, dark, brownish. Fore-tarsi a trifle stout, but not dilated, the segments gradually decreasing in length and width so that segment V is slim, but like all the tarsi with fairly well developed pulvilli and claws. Fore tibiae with a posterodorsal row of longish, fine cilia or setulae well differentiated with the other tibial hairs. Hind tibiae with dorsal seam evenly curved; postero- dorsal cilia fine and short, about 18 in number. Wings distinctly yellowish-grey tinged, the veins brown; thin veins well pigmented. Costal index 0.5; ratios 49:38: 20. Costal cilia long, about 17-18 from the humeral cross-vein onwards, the first two or three very short, the remainder gradually increasing in length. Halteres, including the peduncle, dark, brownish-black. Length: 2 mm. (body curved). Holotype ¢, Cheshire, Delamere Forest, 3.iv.1959, C. N. Colyer. In British Museum (Nat. Hist.) London. Paratype °, Shropshire, Walford, near Baschurch (near Shrewsbury), 22.x.1974. Obtained from an emergence trap being operated by Dr. F. I. Henderson (Rothamsted Experimental Station) and Mr. R. O. Clements (Grassland Research Institute). The trap was situated in grassland at the Shropshire Farm Institute. In collection of Dr. R. H. L. Disney. This species would lead to setifera Lundbeck in Lund- beck’s keys (1922) but is differentiated by the shorter costa and different coastal ratios, different position of antial bristles, and somewhat larger size (although only the ° of this species is known, and only the ¢ of setifera). M. (M.) zonata Zetterstedt This is known as British from only four specimens in the British Museum (Det. Schmitz and Colyer), all from Scotland. Ross and Cromarty (Highland) Dingwall, 27.vii.1909, ?, J. J. F. X. King; Inverness (Highland) Nethy Bridge, 25, 29.vii.1923,) 6,2 J.3.Ei X King: Plastophora luteipes Schmitz Parmenter (1965) recorded this species as British, but Colyer in his files has a ms. note “‘Schmitz (in litt. 7.xii.1950) determines as simulans Wood 2” and he thus omitted it from the Check List. P. pictorufa Colyer Colyer (1957) redefined the concept of this genus and described this species from a single ¢, Cheshire, Delamere Forest, 26.vi.1954, C. N. Colyer. Later he (Colyer & Elberg, 1969) produced a revised key to world species. PHORINAE Cheatopleurophora spinossissima (Strobl) Described from Austria (Strobl, 1892) this species is known from Britain as follows: Somerset: N. Wortlebury, nr. Weston-super-Mare, 4.v.1957, 2, E. A. Fonseca, Bovrton Coombe, 3.v.1958, ¢, E. A. Fonseca. Citrago collini Schmitz Described from England (Herefordshire, J. E. Collin) by PLATE XIII ‘SUIM o[eWas “‘u'ds D4af{1jnjas (DIJasDdaP) DiJasDsay ‘¢ {BUIM d]eUI ‘p “MOIA [BIO}e] JYSII ul untsAdodAy ‘¢ ‘MOIA [eJO}Je] IO] UT UNIsAdodAY ‘Z -djed gyeur ‘[ ‘“u'ds vsoonsdip (vjapyooiydp) vijaspsay~w p-[ :G-] ‘S34 ane Det thiol oe | rn a i, ' 7m, ii na : s iment TS 5 aA eat PL eins 2 Gayo ibe rab ee Or ” ue oo 7 Ls hs on av as v9 — - NOTES ON SOME BRITISH PHORIDAE (DIPTERA) 167 Schmitz (1955 in Schmitz et al.: 347) this species has also been recorded from Bavaria. The two British species may be separated as follows: 1. Anal vein abbreviated; 3rd vein distinctly narrowed or reduced towards apex; 3rd antennal segment less than 14 ante GES! IONS BS WIE Mit leet tele aceesscese sas collini Schmitz —. Anal vein distinctly reaching wing-margin, at least as a crease; 3rd vein not narrowed apically; 3rd antennal segment obviously much longer than wide.................. citreiformis Becker Conicera minuscula Schmitz This species was described from Ireland in Linder’s Die Fliegen . . . (Schmitz, 1953: 29) and also recorded from other European countries, including England. Parmenter (1965) noted that it was an addition to our fauna when he recorded specimens from Blean Woods National Nature Reserve, Kent, 23.vii.1964. The following distribution can now be given. Berkshire: Temple, 16.vii.1962, ¢, E. B. Basden. Buck- inghamshire: Medmenham, 12.v.1934, 2°, from nest of mole, E. B. Basden. Cambridgeshire: Wooditton Wood, 11.v.1921, 2, J. E. Collin; Butley, 29.vii.1907, ¢, J. E. Collin. Hamp- shire: New Forest, Aldridge Hill, 30.v.1959, ¢, E. A. Fonseca. Hertfordshire: Oughton Head, 22.vi.1967, ¢, C. N. Colyer. Lancashire: Denton Sands, iv.1923, ¢ 2, H. Britten; Formby, ive 1953) 6, Co N. Colyer... [2 Somerset] : George, Avon, 10.vi.1909, ¢, J. J. F. X. King. Suffolk, Barton Mills, 27.v.1958, é, E. A. Fonseca. Surrey: Windsor Forest, 24.vi.1950, ¢, C. N. Colyer. Phora edentata Schmitz Schmitz (1920) described this species from Holland and it has since been recognised widely in Europe. Parmenter (1965) first recorded the species in Britain from Essex, Kent and Surrey and I have seen specimens from: Cambridgeshire, Cheshire, Hampshire, Hertfordshire and Suffolk. Triphleba collini Schmitz Schmitz (1943: 156 in Lindner) described this species from specimens collected by J. E. Collin at Chippenham Fen, Cambridgeshire. It has since been recorded from Sussex (Parmenter, 1965) and other British records are Surrey: Bookham Common, 23.i1i.151, 2 ¢, C. N. Colyer and E. A. Fonseca; 8.i11.1953, ¢, L. Parmenter. AENIGMATIINAE Aenigmatias franzi Schmitz This species was described from Austria and England by Schmitz (1950). The English data are Cheshire: Delamere Forest, 16.vii.1939, 2 ¢, flying on bank on which were colonies of Myrmica ruginodis Nylander and Lasius niger (L.) (Hym., Formicidae). Acknowledgments The present paper owes much to the manuscript notes of _my friend the late Charles N. Colyer and the names bestowed upon the new species were chosen by him. I thank Mr. E. C. M. 168 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/V1/77 d’Assis Fonseca and Dr. R. H. L. Disney for comments which led to the preparation of this paper, and Dr. I. F. Henderson for the paratype of M. setulifera. References Andersson, H. 1971. A list of Phoridae recorded from Norway and Sweden (Diptera). Ent. Tidskr., 92: 129-141. Colyer, C. N. 1957. A new species of Plastophora (Dipt., Phoridae) from England; a short discussion on the evolution of the present concept of the genus and a key for the identification of the world species. Broteria, 26: 75-89. Colyer, C. N. 1959. Notes on Megaselia (Aphiochaeta) tergata (Lund- beck), with a description of the male. Broteria, 28: 19-22. Colyer, C. N. 1969. Some Phoridae (Diptera) from Southern Spain and Majorca, with descriptions of two new species. Ent. Meddr., 37: 9-26. Colyer, C. N. & Elberg, K. 1969. New data on Phoridae (Diptera). Eesti N S V Tead. Akad. Toim. Biol. Ser., 18: 154-169. Colyer, C. N. & Smith, K. G. V. 1976. Phoridae, In Kloet, G. S. & Hincks, W. D. A Check List of British Insects, 2nd edition, Pt. 5, Diptera and Siphonaptera. Handb. Ident. Br. Insects, 11 (5): 109-113. Lundbeck, W. 1920. New species of Aphiochaeta from Denmark. Vidensk. Meddr. dansk naturh. Foren., 71: 1-34. Lundbeck, W. 1921. New species of Phoridae from Denmark, together with remarks on Aphiochaeta groenlandica Lundb. Vidensk. Meddr. dansk naturh. Foren., 72: 129-143. Lundbeck, W. 1922. Diptera Danica VI Pipunculidae, Phoridae. Copen- hagen. Parmenter, L. 1965. Notes on the distribution of Phoridae (Diptera) in Britain. Proc. S. Lond. ent. nat. Hist. Soc., 1965: 35-42. Parmenter, L. 1966. Megaselia (Megaselia) largifrontalis Schmitz (Dipt., Phoridae) new to the British List and some other Phoridae taken in April to July 1965. Entomologist, 99: 257-260. Schmitz, H. 1918. Die Phoriden von Hollandish Limburg. Mit Bestim- mungstabellen aller bisher kenntlich beschriebenen europaischen Bonen: I. und Il. Teil. Jaarb. natuurh. Genoot. Limburg., 1917: 79-150. Schmitz, H. 1919. Neue Europaische A phiochaeta—Arten III. Ent. Ber., Amst., 5: 139-146. Schmitz, H. 1920. Die Phoriden von Hollandish Limburg. IV. Jaarb. natuurh. Genoot. Limburg., 1919: 91-154, Schmitz, H. 1927. Revision der Phoridengattungen, mit Bescreibung neuer Gattungen und Arten. Natuurh. Maandbl., 16: 128-132 [part]. Schmitz, H. 1929. Neue Diploneura- und Megaselia-Arten. Zool. Meded, Leiden, 11: 28-36. Schmitz, H. 1933. Neue Phoriden aus Hollaendish Limburg. Natuurh. Maandbl., 22: 99-100. Schmitz, H. 1934. [Aanwinsten voor de Phoridenfauna van Nederland. ] Tijdschr. Ent., 77: LX. Se aan Neue Europaische Phoriden (Diptera). Tijdschr. Ent., Se i wee Spanische Phoriden des Madrider Museums. Broteria, Baur ese re at Die ersten hundert Phoriden von Portugal. Broteria, pee 1947. Neue Phoriden aus Oesterreich. Broteria, 35: 8-17, ee Te 1950. Neue Phoriden aus Europa und Afrika. Broteria, 46: Schmitz, H. 1952. Uber W. Lundbecks Sammlung und Bescreibung danischer Phoriden. Ent. Medd., 26: 350-379. Strobl, G. 1892. Zur Kenntnis und Verbreitung der Phoriden Oesterreichs. Wien. ent. Ztg., 11: 193-204. Wood, J. H. 1909. On the British species of Phora (Part Il). Ento- mologist’s mon. Mag., 20: 24-28. NOTES ON SOME BRITISH PHORIDAE (DIPTERA) 169 AN EARLY MIGRANT AND A NEw MOTH TRAP “‘PREDATOR”’. —An early Agrotis ipsilon Hufn. came to my m.v. trap on 19th March, 1977. Since 1958 my only records earlier than May have been 7th March, 1963, 31st March, 1967 and 20th April, 1968. For several years I have had to put 1 inch wire netting in the entrance to the m.v. trap io keep out bluetits and it has been generally effective, without preventing the entry of large moths such as the Sphingids and Mormo maura L. Recently I was looking at the trap from the house window and saw a Wren (Troglodytes) entering and coming straight out again with a moth, repeating this performance several times. The bird seemed to have a preference for Orthosia cruda D. & S. — L. W. Siccs, Sungate, Football Green, Minstead, Lyndhurst, Hants. ATOMARIA CONSANGUINEA JOHNSON (COL.: CRYPTO- PHAGIDAE): —TWO FURTHER RECORDS FOR HERTS., INCLUDING THE EARLIEST KNOWN FInp. — I have long had in my collection two examples of an Atomaria s.str. from straw refuse near Cheshunt, Herts. (25.xi.45), which the late authority on the genus — Dr. Oscar Sjoberg — determined for me as nigri- ventris Steph.; but as they appeared to me to differ materially from that species, I regarded their identity as still in question. The problem was solved when Mr. Colin Johnson kindly pre- sented me with a paratype of his new species A. consanguinea (1975, Ent. mon. Mag., 111: 181-2)—to which (and to his description) the above pair were found to conform perfectly. More recently I have detected a specimen of the new species which had been mixed with others of the subgenus among duplicates left by G. H. Ashe, taken by P. Harwood at St. Albans (5.x.24) — probably from a manure heap or cut grass. It is of interest in being the earliest capture so far known, since the many published by Johnson are all subse- quent to 1930 and mostly of the present decade, including the Continental records. My experience tends to support Mr. Johnson’s suggestion that consanguinea is displacing its near ally nigriventris, which I have only once found (Berkhamsted, Herts., in haystack bottom, 1x.35). The sole recent records I have of that species are of one at Wytham Wood, Berks., in Polystictus versicolor* at base of dead beech, 23.ii1.54 (C. Elton, det. Sjoberg); and one from Essex, date and locality not to hand (P. M. Hammond, det. Allen) but doubtless taken in the *50s or 60s. — A. A. ALLEN. * Because of the habitat, this specimen should perhaps be checked with A. puncticollis Thoms. in mind. 170 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/VI/77 Observations on British Butterflies in 1976 Part I By Dr. C. J. LUCKENS It is a great pleasure to find something of entomological worth in the depths of winter, and for me this is fulfilled by a successful search for Hairstreak ova. One such expedition was undertaken to Alice Holt Forest a few days after the New Year, and while my two older sons indulged in cycle speed trials up and down the rides I was able to concentrate on the oak twigs in relative peace. A dozen ova of Thecla quercus L. found in an hour of searching, made the trip worthwhile. This batch produced typical butterflies in mid-June, but among some others collected from West Sussex in December 1975 (which emerged around the same time) was a female specimen with small orange patches at the end of the cell—ab. flavi- maculatus Lienard (=bellus Gerh.). February slid into March and on the first of the month my wife saw a male Gonopteryx rhamni L. near our house in Southampton. The following day we had something of an ornithological event. A pair of Siskins which were regular attenders at our garden peanut bar were joined by a male Brambling in what looked like full breeding plumage—a lovely sight in the bright March sunlight. I waited until nearly the end of the month to see my first butterfly and this was Aglais urticae L. on the south vallum of Hod Hill on March 26th. Larvae of Euphydryas aurinia Rott. were taking the sun here and there, but in very small numbers. I suspect the colony is at a low ebb at present and in view of the paucity of scabious in the Dorset Naturalists’ Trust Reserve it seems hardly surprising. Two days later all the common hibernators were flying freely. We saw rhamni, urticae and Inachis io L. in our garden and during a visit to Bentley Woods during the afternoon good numbers of Polygonia c-album L. were noted. A holiday in the third week of April enabled me to spend some time in an area of West Sussex where Nymphalis poly- chloros L. has turned up from time to time over the last five years. Several visits failed to produce this rarity but it was a great pleasure just walking around in these woods in the invigorating Spring sun. On one such walk a preoccupied stoat hirpled down the ride to within a few yards of me before suddenly scampering off into the undergrowth. On April 21st I joined Mr. R. F. Bretherton in a Surrey wood where we released well over 150 half-grown aurinia iarvae in a ride thickly carpeted with scabious. These larvae, which I have bred in captivity since 1973, are from a North Surrey colony which is almost certainly extinct in the wild. JDuring the afternoon Anthocharis cardamines L. was seen alongside the roads around Bramley. Cold winds prevailed for several days but abated on April *52 Thorold Road, Bitterne Park, Southampton, SO2 4JG. OBSERVATIONS ON BRITISH BUTTERLIES IN 1976 171 26th when cuckoos were calling in a western enclosure of the New Forest and several male Celestrina argiolus L. flitted around a grove of sombre hollies. Later on in the first week in May this delicate little butterfly became more numerous but never approached the abundance of the argiolus year of 1970 May 7th was a superb day—warm and continuously sunny —and at Whiteparish Common the first Boloria euphrosyne L. were skimming over the bugle flowers. A week later they were much commoner near Winchester, and the two skippers Erynnis tages L. and Pyrgus malvae L., especialiy the latter, were in excellent numbers. A few fresh Hamearis lucina L., Callophrys rubi L. and Pararge megera L. made an appearance in this same coppiced wocd. Heavy showers on May 15th made beating and searching blackthorns in a Bucks. locality rather heavy going. However, several larvae of Strymonidia pruni L. were obtained from this. thickety wood where nightingale song resounded. The wych elms of Badbury Rings, the following weekend, produced no larvae of Strymonidia w-album Knoch. but P. malvae and Polyomatus icarus Rott. were in evidence and there were cardamines ova on nearly all the stands of hedge mustard along the road verges. Later in the morning a breath- less run to the top of Hod Hill revealed my appalling unfitness but also the rewarding sight of the first aurinia males already out on the south vallum and a good showing of Aricia agestis D. & S. and C. rubi, mainly on the steep western slope of this ancient hill fort. Cupido minimus L. was common on Portsdown on May 28th and flower heads of kidney vetch were studded with the tiny pale turquoise ova of this butterfly. Quite a cloud of males arose from one patch of long grass as I walked by. The next day the children came with me to the Winchester downs where a good variety of butterfly species were on the wing. In particular, P. icarus and A. agestis were out in notable force and a few examples of C. minimus and to my delight, Lysandra bellargus Rott. were also seen. I started to examine these blues for varieties but nothing of note turned up in spite of the excellent numbers flying. Just before leaving I met Mr. L. Young who had worked this hillside for several hours with similar results. Our belated decision to visit the Isle of Wight on June 2nd resulted in a hurried car journey from Southampton in order to catch the Lymington ferry. In accordance with a well known “‘law’’ everything conspired to hold us up—motorists considered it a point of honour to prevent me overtaking them, level crossing gates closed in our faces and all traffic lights were red. However, my eldest son and I pounded down the long companionway to the ferry just as the gang-plank was being lifted. After that all went smoothly and we arrived _at the south coast of the island to find Melitea cinxia L. in profusion. There was even one on the roadside at the bus 172 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/VI1/77 stop. Several other butterfly species were seen in the same locality, including C. minimus, A. agestis, P. icarus, P. megera, E. tages and the first Ochlodes venata Br. & Grey. On June 3rd, I started operations at Portsdown where C. minimus was common and still quite fresh in the main and accompanied by Coenonympha pamphilus L., a few P. icarus and the first Maniola jurtina L. A wood near Fareham was Visited in the afternoon. I knew one part of this wood well but decided to explore a different sector and was gratified to find a strong colony of. Boloria selene D. & S. and a single worn female aurinia. This locality used to be renowned for the latter butterfly but it declined disastrously in the mid-60’s and a lone male I saw in 1973 in another area of the wood was the first after a gap of several years. Hopefully the Marsh Fritillary is making a comeback here. Two days later my wife, our youngest son and I set off for East Cornwall. We had continuous trouble with the car and at Dorchester found we had left behind some essential items of luggage and had to retrace our steps. We finally arrived at our destination at 10.30 that evening. June 6th was dull and grey and we did nothing but sit around recovering from our traumatic journey of the previous day. By the next morning the fine weather had returned and we lost no time in getting to a haunt of Mellicta athalia Rott. situated in a beautiful secluded Cornish valley. As we parked the car beside the road, athalia fluttering over the bonnet seemed a good omen and we found the butterfly in plenty all along the valley. Females were just emerging and the males still in excellent condition, but variation was virtually non- existent. Flying in company with athalia were numerous selene and one or two euphrosyne and aurinia; single examples of cardamines, tages and malvae were also noted in this rich area. I was pleased to renew acquaintance with Captain Peter Gainsford whom I met by chance. After driving through superb countryside to the edge of Dartmoor on June 8th, I set off on the longish walk to another athalia site which I had last visited in 1972. Disappointment awaited me, for the former flourishing colony was sadly reduced in numbers—about six males and three females were seen in the prime site, but a short distance away the butterfly seemed to have spread thinly over quite a wide area. I visited the ‘‘athalia valley’ later on that day and again three days later but could find nothing more than two underside vars. One of these deposited a large batch of ova and I am hopeful of something impressive in the F2 generation. Unsettled weather prevailed for a few days around mid- June and then the torrid weather started in earnest. Many of my captive stock of Apatura iris L. were out well before the end of the month and on the last day of June my wife and I visited the woods south of Salisbury to look for this fine insect. Within minutes of our entering the wood, two iris were seen settling on a patch of slightly damp ground and Limenitis OBSERVATIONS ON BRITISH BUTTERLIES IN 1976 173 camilla L. and Argynnis paphia L. were out in profusion. The intense heat caused problems with our car again and while we waited for it to cool off in the shade, iris males flashed by at regular intervals. A large female floated down to the dusty track and walked around insinuating her proboscis under small pebbles in a search for moisture. After a while she flew on to a low bush in the shade and sat with outspread wings. She was still there when we were finally able to restart the car five minutes later. Back in Southampton that afternoon, while we were being plied with much-needed drinks on a neighbour’s lawn, a T. quercus consented to join the gathering. We have many oak trees in our area of Southampton, but though I have regularly scanned them for this butterfly I have never seen one in the city before. _ TRESHNISH ISLES. — The Treshnish Isles are a group of eight terraced tertiary basalt islands with numerous small rocks situated approximately four miles off the north-west corner of Mull. The basalt is weathered into terraces giving the islands their characteristic outlines. Lunga, the largest island, is 170 acres in area, a mile and a quarter long by 500 yards wide at the extremes, with a highest point of 337 feet at the northern end. The island is generally a grassy plateau with raised areas of basalt sur- rounded by sheer cliffs and a number of steep gullies with vegetated slopes and boulder scree. Since 1970 four visits have been made to Lunga by a small party, mainly to ring the nesting seabirds. All the visits have been in June and the party have also recorded other wildlife seen. I have extracted the entomological portion of these notes. It is a privately owned island and special permission was obtained by the ringing group. It must be stressed that visitors are not allowed during the breeding season when great damage or disturbance could be inflicted on the seabird colonies. Two species of butterfly were recorded —a Painted Lady (Cynthia cardui L.) and a few Common Blues (Polyommatus Icarus Rott.). In addition the following insects, etc., were noted: Yellow dung-fly (Scatophaga stercoraria), Snipe-fly (Rhagio scolopacea), Caddis fly (Leptocerus aterrimus), the beetles Ocypus olens, Dascillus cervinus and Pterostichus melanarius and the spider (Aranea diadema). Click Beetle, Woodlouse, Earwig, Green aphid, Bumblebee and Harvestman sp. were also seen but not specifically identified. Red mites were common on the rocks. My thanks are due to Geoff Ward who prepared the original report and to Geoff Cope for the loan of his copy and additional information. —G. Summers, 23 West Close, Stafford, ST16 3TG. 174 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/V1/77 New Forest Mercury Vapour Light Records for 1976 By L. W. Siccs* The year was remarkable for the drought which lasted through most of June, July and August, but was followed by a wet autumn. Some of the possible effects of the unusual weather are noted below, but it will be more interesting to see what effects show themselves in 1977. Details of the catch of macrolepidoptera in the Robinson trap at Minstead are as follows: — Specimens Species Nights Total Average Average March m 31 605 20 4 April eg 30 995 33 a May be 31 863 29 13 June mits 30 7,848 262 38 July oie 31 10,481 338 52 August 5 a 31 5,534 179 33 September ... 30 1,712 57 13 October... 28 1,335 48 10 November ... 9 223 25 5 Overall this was not a peak year, but it was noticeable that many species were earlier than usual, a fact which accounts for the high figure for June, a fairly good one (but by no means a record) for July, but a poor one for August. The list below which shows record catches for the year is longer than usual. It contains only one abundant species and most such species were well below average. The list of those species which are occasional is also longer than usual. There were three additions to the Minstead list: Apoda avellana L., Spilosoma urticae Esp. and Callimorpha dominula L. This record consisted of the two forewings left on the trap collar, presumably by a predatory bird who had not learnt about protective coloration; but, of course, he had no previous opportunity of learning about dominula so far away from its riverside haunts. The total number of species taken in 1976 was 340. There were record catches in the following species; the figures in brackets show the previous best since 1961: Drepana cultraria Fab. 56 (14); Scopula imitaria Hiibn. 15 (4); Chloro- clysta rectangulata L. 18 (13); Peribotodes rhomboidaria D. & S. 275 (229); Euxoa tritici L. 13 (4); Agrotis segetum D. & S. 108 (74); A. exclamationis L. 9,366 (7,244); A. puta Hiibn. 1,342 (814); Paradiarsia glareosa Esp. 68 (55); Hada nana Hufn. 14 (4); Mythimna pallens L. 850 (473); M. comma L. 119 (83); Lithophane leautieri Bois. 59 (34); Conistra vaccinii L. 1,016 (815); Parastichtis suspecta Hiibn. 26 (13); Aanthia aurago D. & S. 27 (10); Amphipyra pyramidea L. 29 (16); A. berbera Rungs. 92 (58); Oligia versicolor Borkh. 79 * Sungate, Football Green, Minstead, Lyndhurst, Hampshire. NEW FOREST MERCURY VAPOUR LIGHT RECORDS 175 (17); Luperina testacea D. & S. 229 (62); Hoplodrina ambigua D. & S. 155 (12); Caradrina clavipalpis Scop. 41 (17); Colocasia coryli L. 58 (41); Laspeyria flexula D. & S. 111 (68). The following species are occasional here and were welcome in 1976: Idaea seriata Schrank.; Mesoleuca albicillata L.; Eulithis mellinata Fab.; Colostigia multistrigaria Haw.; Perizoma albulata D. & S.; P. flavofasciata Thunb.; Eupithecia succenturiata L.; Plagodis pulveraria L.; Cerapteryx graminis L.; Orthosia opima Hiibn.; Mythimna favicolor Barr.; M. obsoleta Hiibn.; Aporophila lutulenta D. & S.; Conistra rubi- ginea D. & S.; Acronicta megacephala D. & S.; Mormo maura L.; Cosmia pyralina D. & S.; Mesoligia furuncula D. & S.; Oria musculosa Hiibn.; Stilbia anomala Haw.; Elaphria venustula Hiibn. Migrants Not a good year for migrants, but it was pleasant to see M. vitellina again: Plutella xylostella L. (maculipennis Curt.) (9); Udea ferrugalis Hiibn. (1); Nomophila noctuella D. & S. (40); Lithosia quadra L. (13); Agrotis ipsilon Hufn. (147); Peri- droma saucia Hiibn. (porphyrea sensu Edelsten) (7); Mythimna vitellina Hiibn. (1); Autographa gamma L. (133). Polymorphism Biston betularia L. Idaea aversata L. typical 21 (78%) remutata 138 (75%) carbonaria 3 (11%) aversata 47 (25%) insularia 3 (11%) This year I also used an assembly trap in woodland nearby, “baited’’ with female Biston betularia and attracted the following males: typical 69 (84%), carbonaria 2 (2%), insularia 11 (13%). Hydromena furcata Thunb. Type 50, ab. obscura Prout 1. Epirrita dilutata D. & S. Type 64, ab. melana Prout 2. Ennomos erosaria D. & S. Pale form 25, dark form 4. Alcis repandata L. Type 65, f. consonaria Hiibn. 2. Ectropis bistortata Goeze. Type 14, melanic 1. Eilema griseola Hiibn. Type 9, ab. flava 2. Eilema deplana Esp. Type nil, vars. 16. Diarsia mendica Fab. Type 54, ab. primulae Esp. 1. Atethmia centrago Haw. Type 3, ab. unicolor Stdgr. 1. X anthia icteritia Hufn. Type 126, ab. imperfecta Tutt, 1. ab. flavescens Esp. 1. Luperina testacea D. & S. Type 228,ab. nigrescens Tutt, 1. Charanyca trigrammica Hufn. Type 32, ab. obscura Tutt, 1. ab. pallida-linea Tutt, 1. The Drought Mr. E. H. Wild raised some interesting points in his article in Ent. Rec., 88:260, regarding second broods in 1976. He says that Agrotis exclamationis L. “occasionally throws up a small second brood”. At Minstead there has been a second brood of this species between August and October each year _ since 1958 without exception. In 1976, there were 9,075 in the first brood to 27th July. The second brood started on Ist August, reached a peak of 39 on the 12th August and finished 176 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15 / VA TF on 23rd September with a total of 291. It was a rather poor year for Laothoé populi L., only 17, finishing on 12th August. There were 165 Leucania pallens L. from 4th June to 18th July and 685 from 29th July to 23rd September. We had no late brood of O. sambucaria L., E. pulchellata Steph., C. morpheus Hufn., and no P. moneta F. which is very occasional here. I found no species with an unexpected second brood. C. nupta L. is only occasional and turned up on 12th August and 3rd September — nothing exceptional, but A. pyramidea L. began on 13th July which was early and numbers were up, A. berbera Rungs. began on 12th July which was early and numbers were high. A. tragopogonis L. was also early on 12th July. C. lutea Str6m. was normal on 16th Sep- tember. Other early emergences of autumn species were Atethmia xerampelina Hiibn. (20th August), Agrochola macilenta Hiibn. (26th August — very early as it usually waits till October), Dichonia aprilina L. (24th September), A grochola lota Cl. (27th September), and Colotois pennaria L. (27th September). I had 55 species in which the last cepture was considerably later than usual. Presumably the drought conditions inhibited any desire to remain in the pupa. Will this result in an early emergence season next year or will the hard winter adjust the cycle? One wonders what will be the effect of the drought on next year’s numbers. Most birch trees were in yellow leaf by the end of August, and although there was subsequently a fresh growth when the rain came, many birch feeding larvae must have died. Beech suffered similarly. Lichens were parti- cularly dried up. I had hoped to breed some Eilema deplana Esp. because I have never taken a type male at Minstead and only two type females. Two females (vars.) obliged with a few ova but I was unable to find fresh lichen which the larvae were able to eat. Perhaps, too, there is some significance in the fact that bluetits have been noticeably scarcer this winter. Could this be due to shortage of larvae during the drought? PARECTOPA ONONIDIS ZELL. IN S.E. LONDON. — On 7th July, 1976 my first specimen of the above moth made its appearance at m.v. light here. This very local and somewhat elusive Gracillariid is not included in “‘Woolwich Surveys’”’ (1909) — the early list of the fauna of this district. Though so small and narrow, the gleaming silver-white marks on a dark ground give it an exceedingly neat and bright aspect in a good light. About 15 years ago, on a visit to Riddlesdown, Surrey, with the late lamented Stanley Wakely, we searched for the mines or spinnings of P. ononidis on clover at a spot where he had previously found them, but in vain. — A. A. ALLEN, 49 Mont- calm Road, Charlton, London, SE7 8QG. Loi). Oxycera trilineata (L.) (Diptera) New to Cumbria By C. F. Cowan* Mr. A. Brindle’s survey (Vol. 88: 256-259) of the Stratiomyid flies of north England spurs me to report this belated record. On 30.vii.1961, a brilliantly hot day, I explored the sand dunes and slacks of Sandscale Haws (10 km. square 34/17, tetrad NE; v.-c. 69), about 5 km. north of Barrow in Furness. This is a fine area of dune slacks in the Duddon Estuary, with some very interesting flora which I set out to photograph. There being no shade, I left unwanted equipment on a dry spot covered by my pac-a-mac, and took my camera with a wide-angle lens. An hour later I returned and saw this superb green fly basking on my mackintosh and serenely preening her pink legs. I secured successively closer photographs to within about 5 cm., this last giving an image about life-size on the colour transparency. Identification from the fine figure of a male in colour by Colyer & Hammond (1951:94, pl. 14) was easy. My female had the eyes well separated as normal, with the vertex and frons green and three frontal black lines running down from a black collar; antennae deep rusty red. The BMNH quite reasonably declined to confirm identity from a colour print without a corpse to compare with their series of browned specimens, and I required someone who knew the living animal to see it before reporting. Mr. Brindle has now seen the photograph and positively confirms that the fly is Oxycera trilineata. Colyer & Hammond give the distribution as ‘“‘the southern half of the country’, but Oldroyd (1969: 25, 26) gives “marshes; frequent and widespread’”’ throughout the British Isles. An old note of my own, made I think in 1962 when seeing the BMNH series, makes this am estuarine insect of S.E. and S. England, and S. Wales. The favoured Duddon Estuary, washed by a tentacle of the Gulf Stream, is a com- patible locality. Oldroyd notes “found on vegetation’; Brindle adds in litt. “‘prefers a pac-a-mac’’, a useful tip for collectors perhaps, but anathema to photographers! Both Colyer & Hammond and Oldroyd attributed the name to Fabricius, but Fabricius himself invariably (e.g. 1775: 760, no. 7) cited Linnaeus, who proposed it in Musca, and the correct name is Oxycera trilineata (L., 1767). References Colyer, C. N. and Hammond, C. O. 1951. Flies of the British Isles (Warne). Fabricius, J. C. 1775. Systema Entomologiae. Flensb. & Lips. Linnaeus, C. 1767. Systema Naturae (edn. 12). Holmiae (2: 980, no. 6). ee H. 1969. Handbooks for the Identification of British Insects, *4 Thornfield Terrace, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, LA11 7DR. 178 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/VI1/77 Stigmella repentiella (Wolff, 1955) (Lep.: Nepticulidae): A Species New to Britain By A. M. EMMET* Summary After the discovery of a hitherto misidentified specimen in the Wakely Collection, Stigmella repentiella has been found to be established as a breeding species on the coast of Kent. Its life history is described. Narrative On the 29th March, 1976, I paid a visit to the Department of Zoology, Cambridge University, in order to extract records for Volume 2 of The Moths and Butterflies of Great Britain and Ireland from the collections housed in the Insect Room. I was helped in my task by Paul Johnson. When we had finished working through the families in which I was interested, and while I was completing my notes, Paul went off to look at the Nepticulidae in the Wakely collection. I soon heard him exclaim: ‘‘This one is wrongly identified: it is labelled Ectoedemia intimella, but it certainly isn’t that species. The data label reads ‘“‘Sandwich, Kent. Bred from Salix repens, 7.viii.57’’. “‘In that case,’’ I replied, “‘it is Stigmella repentiella Wolff, and it is new to Britain. Let’s have a look.’’ We arranged to borrow the specimen, which was a male, and I took it up to the British Museum (Natural History) where Dr. J. D. Bradley dissected the genitalia. This established the identi- fication beyond question as S. repentiella. The next task was to find out whether the moth still occurred in the Sandwich area. I am a member of the Kent Trust for Nature Conservation, so I appealed to that organisa- tion for help in locating the foodplant. Mr. K. A. Chapman, Warden of the Sandwich Bay Reserve, told me of a damp hollow where it occurred, and on the 19th of July my wife and I, accompanied by Paul Johnson, made the long journey to investigate. We soon confirmed that the insect was present, but the mines seemed scarce and were certainly difficult to find. At the end of a three-hour search, our total collective ‘bag’? was about 24 mines, only two of which were tenanted. Both surfaces of the leaves of the foodplant are covered in silky hairs which tend to hide the mine. The course of the gallery often follows the leaf-margin rendering it even less conspicuous. However, old mines tend to go black, a dis- coloration which sometimes starts to show while the larva is still feeding; these blackened leaves are rather easier to find. The two tenanted mines produced adults on the 6th and 12th of August. The species is sexually dimorphic, and, luckily, there was one of each sex. While the main credit for this addition to our lepidop- terous fauna must go to Wakely, who found the first larva and reared it successfully, his specimen would not yet have been recognised had Paul Johnson not noticed Wakely’s mis- * Labrey Cottage, Victoria Gardens, Saffron Walden, Essex. STIGMELLA REPENTIELLA (WOLFF, 1955) 179 identification. It is surprising that an entomologist of Wakely’s calibre should have been guilty of such an error, but, as he would have been the first to admit, his knowledge of the Nepticulidae was meagre in comparison with that of the other microlepidoptera. He exhibited the moth as “Nepticula intimella Zeller’? at the annual exhibition of the South London Entomological and Natural History Society in 1957 and no one at that time seems to have challenged the determination. It is a tribute to Paul’s keen young eye and rapidly expanding knowledge of the microlepidoptera that he exposed at a glance a mistake which was accepted without demur by the ento- mological cognoscenti of 1957. I was able to write to Wakely confirming this identification of his specimen just a few days before his death, and his daughter tells me that the news gave him great pleasure. Help continued to come from the K.T.N.C. Mr. E. Philp, who is in charge of the Regional Data Bank at Maidstone Museum, wrote giving me three other stands of the foodplant along the coast of Kent, and, furthermore, told me that what had been regarded as Salix repens ssp. argentea (see Clapham, Tutin & Warberg, 1962) was now considered to have specific rank under the name Salix arenaria (see Tutin, 1972-76). I have since learned from Dr. Niels Wolff and others that the status of the sandhill creeping willow is an old and still unresolved, botanical crux on which it would be improper for me to pronounce; however, for my own convenience, I shall refer to it here as Salix arenaria. It seems that S. repen- tiella feeds exclusively on S. arenaria and not on S. repens. Dr. Wolff, the species’ nomenclator, tells me that he has found it only on the former: I have examined the mines in the Hering herbarium, which he collected at the type locality (Asserbo, Denmark) and they are exactly like those from Sandwich Bay. Hering (1951: 152) discusses the influence that leaf-mining insects can have on the classification of plants; the fact that S. repentiella seems to accept only S. arenaria lends some measure of support to those botanists who prefer to regard it as a species distinct from S. repens. My wife and I visited the Sandwich district again on the 3rd of September. We began by searching one of the additional sites given us by Mr. Philp; it lies on the sandhills just north of Deal. Though it is only a mile or so from the Sandwich locality, there was no trace of S. repentiella. We then went on to the site at Sandwich, where we found that the dis- coloration of the mines was making them easier to find than in July; all, however, were empty. Our third and final visit to Sandwich was on the 3rd of October. On this date, the second generation of larvae was feeding and we managed to secure a score of tenanted mines. From these we have a number of cocoons, some of which may produce adults in the spring. Dr. F. H. Perring, of the Institute of Terrestrial Ecology at Monks Wood, kindly supplied me with a map showing the 180 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/VI1/77 distribution of Salix arenaria in the British Isles. Most of the sites are on coastal sandhills. Perhaps the most extensive stand is along the dunes on the Lancashire coast near Southport, and we had the opportunity to reconncitre these on the 15th of September. Though we searched assiduously, we found no evidence of S. repentiella. Another locality given for the foodplant is the coast of West Galway, south of Slyne Head, and we were staying precisely there in mid-October. We inves- tigated two localities, one on boulder-clay and the other on granite-based sand, both close to the sea. There was no sign of S. repentiella, but the species of Salix appeared to us to be repens rather than arenaria; we may have been looking in the wrong place. Thus, the only known site for S. repentiella is the small hollow near Sandwich. The locality has already been designated as an SSSI for other reasons and is not under human threat; however, it narrowly escaped being destroyed by fire during the hot summer of 1976. The mines of S. repentiella are so desperately difficult to find that there is little danger of its being the victim of overcollection. Description STIGMELLA REPENTIELLA (Wolff). Nepticula repentiella Wolff, 1955, Ent. Meddr., 27: 82. Type locality: Denmark; Asserbo. Imago. Wingspan 4-5 mm. Male. Head ochreous yellow, collar white; antennae fuscous, 3/5 length of forewings; eye- caps white. Forewing shining fuscous-grey; an indistinct rather narrow fascia of colourless scales beyond middle, extending slightly towards base on costa and, more noticeably, along dorsum; apical area beyond fascia slightly darker than base; cilia grey. Hindwing and cilia grey. Female. Antennae slightly shorter than in male. Forewing yellowish fuscous; fascia broad and distinct. Otherwise as male. Ovum. Laid on the underside of a leaf of sandhill creeping- willow (Salix arenaria), usually beside the midrib or on the leaf margin. Larva. Yellow. Mine. A gallery, sooner or later reaching the leaf margin, which it then follows for some distance; finally, the larva turns inwards and excavates a blotch which may occupy the whole of a small leaflet. The mine quickly turns blackish brown, this frequently becoming the colour of the early mine before the larva has finished feeding. The small veins of the leaf are not eaten; consequently the mine has a reticulate appearance if held up to the light. Cocoon. Yellow brown to dark brown. Life history. Bivoltine. The imagines fly in May and August and the larvae feed in July and September-October. Distribution. Hitherto recorded in Britain only from the coastal sandhills of east Kent. Abroad it is found on the coasts of north-west Germany, Denmark, Poland and Finland; in STIGMELLA REPENTIELLA (WOLFF, 1955) 181 = * = AAAS 19.K1-1976, 182 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 IS/Vijai Sweden it is replaced by a related species, Stigmella benan- derella (Wolff, 1955). Acknowledgments I wish to extend thanks to Dr. W. A. Foster for permission to inspect the collections at Cambridge University and to borrow the original specimen of S. repentiella for study; to Dr. J. D. Bradley who confirmed the determination by dis- section; to the officers of the Kent Trust for Nature Conservation for information about the foodplant in Kent; to Dr. F. H. Perring for a map showing its distribution in the British Isles; to Dr. Neils L. Wolff for information about the foodplant and status of the insect in Denmark and elsewhere on the Continent; to Mr. S. N. A. Jacobs for excellent drawings of the imago and larval mine; and particularly to the Sandwich Bay bird-watchers who not only uncomplainingly tolerated entomologists who intruded on their preserves and impeded their activities, but have also cleared away some of the intrusive sea buckthorn (Hippophaé rhamnoides) to give the creeping willow a better chance to flourish. References Clapham, A. R., Tutin, T. G. and Warburg, E. F., 1962. Flora of the British Isles (2nd Ed.). Cambridge. Hering, E. M., 1951. Biology of the leaf miners. ’S-Gravenhage. Tutin, E. G. et al., 1972-76. Flora Europaea. Cambridge. Wolff, N. L., 1955. Nepticula repentiella sp.n. (Lepidoptera Nepticulidae). Ent. Meddr., 27: 82. Wolff, N. L., 1955. Nepticula benanderella n.sp. (Lep. Nepticulidae). Opusc. Ent., 20: 49. POLYDRUSUS SERICEUS SCHALL. (COL.: CURCULIONIDAE) IN SuSSEX. — Whilst working for the new British weevil Magdalis memnonia Gyll. in company with its discoverer, Mr. P. J. Hodge, in Friston Forest, East Sussex, on 15th June, 1974 (cf. Allen, 1975, Ent. mon. Mag., 111: 96), I took a single example of this middle-sized green Polydrusus by sweeping in a ride. Mr. Hodge had never before seen the insect, but the following year found it in profusion at the same place on young oaks, etc.; and likewise in 1976 but less abundantly. P. sericeus is a particularly local weevil in this country, with its headquarters in North Hants.: Kimpton, Thruxton, Andover, Harewood Forest — all four places being in the same area. At the first two it was taken last century; at the third, by the late Philip Harwood, and one by myself in 1933 in a wood on the downs; at the fourth, by Joy and Tomlin in numbers and as lately as 1974, still in plenty, by Mr. D. Appleton. There are, besides, a few other scattered southern records. In Kent it must be excessively local, its sole station known to me being a cherry tree in the late Dr. Massee’s garden at East Malling; possibly he may have met with it elsewhere in the district, but I never heard that he did. — A. A. ALLEN. 183 The History and Present Status of Luperina nickerlii gueneei Doubleday in Britain By H. N. MIcCHAELIS* The earliest known specimens were two found near the ferry at Rhyl, Clwyd in 1860 or 1861 by T. Porter and these were purchased by the Lancashire collector, J. B. Hodgkinson of Preston. They were eventually sent via the Rev'd. H. Burney to H. Doubleday and Doubleday described the moth under Luperina gueneei H. Dbl. n.sp. in the Entomologist’s Annual of 1864, p. 123, contained in an article by H. Guard Knaggs; Knaggs here refers to three specimens taken in Wales in 1862 and it seems certain that these were the specimens purchased by Hodgkinson, for he writes in the Entomologist 1885, p.45 that he purchased a third specimen taken in north Wales in 1862 by H. Stephenson. Hodgkinson sent this to Miss H. Sulivan of Fulham “where I suppose it remains”’. Perhaps after 23 years, one may imagine a thought of unrequited love from this last remark. The moth next appeared on the sandhills of St. Annes- on-Sea, Lancashire taken by Baxter in 1889 and later in conjunction with H. Yates. I was given specimens bearing the Baxter label for 1911 and 1914 by one of his descendants and understand that the locality was destroyed by building develop- ment between 1917-1918. There was some confusion as to whether or not the St. Annes specimens were but a form of Luperina testacea (D. & S.), but in 1909 Richard South described these as L. gueneei var. baxteri in the Entomologist, xlii, p. 289, and figured genitalia drawn and described by F. N. Pierce showing the differences between the new species and L. testacea. Later much print was devoted to this by H. J. Turner in Ent. Record 1911, v. 23, pp. 53, 89, 171, 201 and F.N. Pierce, ibid. p. 269. The next specimen was found by me at Deganwy, Caernar- vonshire, now Gwynedd, at the edge of the sandhills on 26th August, 1926. This was pale grey with a faint yellowish tinge when found which over the years discoloured to pale ochreous and then resembled my specimens from Baxter. The locality was destroyed by sea erosion in the 1930’s, and the growth of the foodplant Agropyron junceiforme Love is now much reduced. In 1929, the late R. E. Vaughan Roberts found a moth at Prestatyn, Clwyd. This specimen is noted in the rehash of South’s “‘Moths of the British Isles’? 1961, though my Caernarvonshire earlier specimen is omitted although shown in S. Gordon Smith’s “Butterflies and Moths of Cheshire, Flintshire, Denbighshire, Caernarvonshire, Anglesey and Merionethshire’’ 1948, p. 126; clearly, someone had not done their homework on distribution. In 1974, a student from the Nature Conservancy brought me a ¢ for identification from the Clwyd coast taken in early September. This was exhibited at the 1974 British Entomo- * 5 Glan-y-Mor, Glan Conwy, Colwyn Bay. 184 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15) Vig aT logical Society Exhibition but was by mischance missed from the list of published exhibits, but this was later remedied with sincere apologies. My efforts to record this species are indeed subject to ill fortune. On 26th August, 1975, together with Mr. and Mrs. J M. Brummitt, I visited the locality and found a number of 2s resting on leaves and stems of A. junceiforme (sea couch grass) and on the sand nearby, and no é¢s were seen. On 2nd August, 1976, I found a few ¢s at the Point of Air, Clwyd and on their own initiative, B. Goater and B. Skinner found it common there on 13th August. On 5th August we again visited the original locality for a short time and saw a dozen resting mainly on the foodplant; we examined flowers of marram, lymegrass, yarrow, etc., and though other moths were present, we did not see nickerlii. Some days later, I found a weak colony further west. B. Goater and B. Skinner called on me on 14th August on their way to Anglesey where they found the moth that evening on the south-west coast. A few days later, I saw six in half an hour to the east of their spot. In conclusion, I luckily found a crippled 2 near Conwy, Gwynedd on a weak growth of Agropyron while examining a yet unidentified Scro- bipalpa (Gelechiidae). Thus we have had five localities on the mainland—one extinct—and two almost approximated on Anglesey. The larva feeds at night, possibly on or below the surface of the sand, and pupates below the surface in a silk cocoon or web. A description of the early stages is given in “Text Book of British Butterflies and Moths” by L. W. Newman and H. A. Leeds 1913, p. 67, under Guenee’s Luperina. The moth appears from early August to late September and occurs on flat drifts of sand dunes where the Agropyron is the first dune- binder for we found none on the higher marram bound dunes. In all localities, I noticed that the foodplant had been covered at some time by the high spring and winter tides. It is not attracted by mercury vapour light, though admittedly this was never tried later than 12.30 p.m. L. testacea was particu- larly abundant in 1976 and swarmed at my garden light from 9-9.30 onwards. Like testacea, it is not attracted to flowers or “sugar”? and does not fly readily for only two were netted at dusk. I have remarked that the forewings (upperside) tend to discolour with age from pale grey or grey, slightly tinged with yellow, to a pale ochreous; this happened to my Deganwy specimen now in Manchester Museum. The specimens of gueneei figured on a fine plate with an article by Barry Goater, Ent. Gazette, v. 27, p. 141, are clearly old specimens with fw. ochreous and do not approximate to the colour of fresh specimens. It is hoped that the figures on plates for the forth- coming volume of ‘“‘The Butterflies and Moths of Great Britain and Ireland’ do not repeat this discoloration. Doubleday’s description of 1864 fits the species well, though I cannot agree with his “anterior wings pale testaceous’’ for I have always thought testaceous means brick-red, which is confirmed by a HISTORY AND STATUS OF LUPERINA NICKERLII GUENEEI 185 recent Chamber’s 20th Century Dictionary; possibly the meaning of the word has changed over the past hundred years, or perhaps the specimens described in 1864 had been exposed to light for two years. In any case I cannot visualise the fore- wing colour as pale brick red. As regards the similarity to L. testacea, a quick field identification would be: if cilia of hindwings is a clear white you will find you have nickerlii, while cilia of ochreous grey or grey would indicate testacea. Luperina nickerlii gueneei is found only on the seaside edge of sandhills where A. junceiforme and A. pungens grow, i.e. under sea salt conditions; so it appears is Jeechi subsp. nov. Luperina nickerlii nickerlii Freyer is found in Bohemia where such ecological conditions do not occur. Has anyone with adequate facilities carefully compared the Bohemian species with the two British and one Irish subspecies, or considered if it were worth so doing? Conservation: though apparently well spread in small colonies, the main dangers are from sea erosion and holiday development with chalet and caravan sites on the landward side of the dunes on an overworked holiday coast, especially from mid-July to early September. The dunes are less disturbed in the earlier and later months when the larvae are feeding. It is also expected there will be some collecting pressure and it is hoped that moderation will be exercised both in north Wales and in Cornwall. TRYPOPHLOEUS ASPERATUS GYLL. (COL.: SCOLYTIDAE) IN S.E. Lonpon. — A specimen of this extremely local bark- beetle (=Cryphalus binodulus Ratz.) came to my m.v. lamp here at Charlton on the night of 26.vi.76. The rather few British records are scattered and mainly not south-eastern, the only such being quite old: Highgate (Janson) and Forest Hill (Champion) in Fowler, 1891, Col. Brit. Isl., 5: 431. The writer published what appeared to be the first for Kent in 1958, Ent. mon. Mag., 94:216, on a specimen from Darenth Wood. The present capture seems to be only the second for the county and the first modern one for the London suburbs. The beetle may have come from a Lombardy poplar nearby, or from white poplars not far off. The nearest aspens (the usual host in Britain) are in the Shooters Hill woods, barely two miles distant; willows, too, occur locally in some plenty, but require confirmation as a host of 7. asperatus in this country. Besides this, I can add only one to the handful of records given under the above references, viz. Hartlebury, Worcs. (G. H. Ashe). Perhaps if various species of Populus recently dead or bearing dead twigs or boughs were to be carefully worked, this little rarity might be more often encountered. Several closely related species occur abroad on trees of this genus; one of them, T. granulatus Ratz., has been taken once in Britain (cf. Fowler, l.c.), but seems doubtfully native. — A. A. ALLEN, 49 Mont- calm Road, Charlton, London, SE7 8QG. 186 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15) Vi/77 Immigrant Species of Lepidoptera at the Light Trap in West Surrey in 1976 By R. F. BRETHERTON, C.B., M.A., F.R.E.S. One of the outstanding features of moth trap attendances at Bramley, Surrey, in 1976 was an assortment of the scarcer immigrant species which is unusually large for an inland locality. The trap was operated nightly until well into Novem- ber, the only significant gaps being from 7th to 28th July and 29th to 3lst August. The dates given below are those of the night beginning on the day mentioned. Spodoptera exigua Hiibner. 4th July, one fresh male. Oria musculosa Hiibner. 4th July, one female, very small and so pale that the usual white streaks on the forewings are hardly distinguishable from the ground colour. At the time I thought that the very early date for this species was due to the hot summer, and that this specimen was an internal wanderer, perhaps from an unknown colony in Surrey; but after comparing it with a similar one taken on the same night by Mr. Siggs in the New Forest, I conclude that they were both primary immigrants, like my own S. exigua and severval other immigrant species which have since been reported on or about that date elsewhere. Syngrapha interrogationis L. 10th August, one male of a Continental form—vide Ent. Rec., 88: 255. Rhodometra sacraria L. 30th September, one male, tattered and rubbed. Cyclophora puppillaria Hubner. 10th October, one male, slightly worn. Mythimna vitellina Hiibner. 13th October, one female f. pallida Warren. After four days of refusal this laid 150 eggs compactly under a sheath of grass. Kept in a living room at 60°/70°F., these hatched about 28th October, and the resultant moths began to emerge on 20th December. Heterographis oblitella Zell. I am uncertain how much, if anything, this year’s abundance of this species owed to immigration; but I certainly had my share of it: 30th June, one; llth August, one; 26th August, two; 25th September, two—all in good condition. I have not seen it here before; but the dates suggest that in this year, at least, it was breeding nearby. This list of relative rarities is the more surprising because the numbers of the regular immigrant species were not out- standing: Autographa gamma L. began on 26th May and ended on 25th October; but on no night were as many as 10 in the trap, and the total, 103, is less than half the average for the previous twelve years. Agrotis ipsilon Hufnagel began with one on 9th June and four more singles about the end of the month. In August it became fairly regular, with a maximum of seven on 17th; it * Folly Hill, Birtley Green, Bramley, Guildford, Surrey, GU5 OLE. NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS 187 continued to appear on many nights through September and until 30th October, but mostly singly. Except in mid-August there was little sign of any migratory influx, and local breeding from the June immigrants probably accounted for many of the August and later specimens. The year’s total of 190 was little above the average. Peridroma saucia Hiibner gave only four singles, on 6th July and 6th, 8th and 22nd September. Nomophila noctuella D. & S. also gave only four—one on 6th July, two on 4th August, and one on 15th August. Udea martialis Hubner was not seen at all. In summary, it appears that during the prolonged anti- cyclonic period, when winds were mainly from the north or east, there were few immigrants to Surrey, except for the single big influx around 4th July. Arrivals from the east were disappointing, apart from my own S. interrogationis and, among the butterflies, half a dozen Nymphalis antiopa L., which I was not fortunate enough to see myself. But we had more than our usual share of stragglers from the south western immigrants which became numerous on the south coast from late August onwards. The last half of October and early November were, however, disappointing here, perhaps because of the almost continuous rain and the low day temperatures which ushered in a gloomy and sunless autumn to off-set the brilliance of the summer. Notes and Observations SYMBIOTES LATUS REDT. (CoOL.: ENDOMYCHIDAE) IN EAST AND WEST Kent. — The sole published Kent record of this uncommon beetle appears to be of one specimen under bark of a rotten log at Bexley (K. C. Side, 1957). I took a few under bark of a dead fallen or felled poplar at Abbey Wood in 1964- 65, but it seemed very scarce. Both localities are in the north of West Kent, and I can also report the species from the eastern vice-county— my friend Mr. G. Shephard having taken at least three or four examples from an old ash tree in Napchester Wood, near Dover (vii.70). I only once came across S. latus in any numbers (Whitewebbs Wood, Enfield, Middx., in a section of log or post forming one of the supports of a rustic seat, v.42). In Windsor Forest I have met with it but twice, singly, both times associated with beech. — A. A. ALLEN. THE PINE BEAUTY (PANOLIS FLAMMEA D. & S.) IN EAST- BOURNE IN 1977. — On the night of the 12th of April this year, I was pleased to find a perfect specimen of this moth in an actinic light trap at Friston Forest. This is the first ever record of this moth being taken in Eastbourne. Adkin (1930) does not list this species, and I am not aware of any other record for the area.— MArK Hap.ey, 7 Beverington Close, East- bourne, Sussex. 188 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 1/ VET SoMeE LESS COMMON MACROLEPIDOPTERA TAKEN AT LIGHT AT ASHURST, HAMPSHIRE FROM JULY rO DECEMBER 1976. — I have recently moved to Ashurst, and since July 1976 have been running a m.v. trap there almost nightly. Mr. L. W. Siggs confirmed the determinations of the species taken and sug- gested the rarer ones might be worth publishing. In the follow- ing list, where only one or two were taken, this is stated. Trichiura crataegi (L.), Drepana cultraria (F.) (2), Idaea emarginata (L.) (1), Scotopteryx chenopodiata (L.), Horisme vitalbata (D. & S.) (1), Eupithecia phoeniceata (Rambur) (1), Ligdia adustata (D. & S.), Eilema deplana (Esp.), Spaelotis ravida (D. & S.), Eurois occulta (L.) (1), Mythimna albipuncta (D. & S.) (1), Cucullia asteris (D. & S.) (1), Aporophyla lutu- lenta (D. & S.), Lithophane semibrunnea (Haw.) (1), L. socia (Hufn.) (1), L. leautieri (Boisd.), Xylena vetusta (Hbn.) (1), Dryobotodes eremita (F.), Xanthia aurago (D. & S.), Apamea ophiogramma (Esp.) (1), Eremobia ochroleuca (D. & S.), Hydraecia petasitis (Doubl.) (2), Celaena leucostigma (Hbn.) (1), Stilbia anomala (Haw.) (1), Abrostola trigemina (Wern.) (1), Catocala promissa (D. & S.). — Dr. J. C. A. Craik, Dept. of Oceanography, The University, Southampton. A SECOND GENERATION OF THE BROAD-BORDERED BEE HAWK-MOTH (HEMARIS FUCIFORMIS L.).—I observed this moth, sometimes three or four simultaneously, on several days in early August 1976 feeding at the flowers of buddleia in Ashurst, Hants., and took a specimen for my collection. — Dr. J. C. A. Craik, Dept. of Oceanography, The University, Southampton. [This notable record is the first to our know- ledge of a second generation of this moth in Britain, though the species is regularly double brooded on the continent. — Editor. ] BEROSUS SPINOSUS STEV. (COL.: HYDROPHILIDAE) NEw TO West KenTtT.—A specimen of this very local water-beetle most unexpectedly visited my m.v. lamp here on 3rd July, 1976. As a denizen of brackish marshes with a south-easterly distribution, it is remarkable that there appears to be no previous record for West Kent, a well-worked vice-county in the north of which suitable habitats must have abounded along the tidal reaches of the Thames eastward to the estuary. My beetle must of course have been a wanderer, and cannot be positively asserted to have originated in West Kent; the nearest known localities are, or were, on the coasts of South Essex and East Kent. On the other hand, the species could perhaps have recently established itself in some brackish ditch that may, conceivably, remain in the general area of the old Greenwich Marshes, only a short distance from here; especially aS a number of marsh-land species were attracted about the same time. The very limited range of B. spinosus in our islands may be seen from Map 23 in Balfour-Browne, 1958, British Water Beetles, 3:73. — A. A. ALLEN. LEPIDOPTERA OF KENT (171) L. temerata Denis & Schiffermiller : Clouded Silver. Native. Woods, bushy places; on hawthorn, wych elm, wild plum, wild cherry, apple, aspen. Found in all divisions, except 2, 15; few records for 4, 9, 16. Fairly frequent though apparently never very plentiful. D. R. M. Long recorded a total of 70 temerata at light at Bromley in 1964, but his maximum total for any one night was in 1961 with nine on May 24th. In 1965, the same observer first recorded the moth at Bromley on May 14th, and in the same year at that locality as late as August 8th, but whether the latter was one of a partial second generation is questionable. Machin (Zoologist, 6030) records breeding the moth from a larva that he found in September 1856 in Joydens Wood on wild cherry; and P. Cue has found the larva at Ashford on apple. R. G. Chatelain took several larvae at Petts Wood on aspen; and D. R. M. Long has taken it on hawthorn at Lullingstone, High Elms and Shoreham, on wild plum at Westerham Hill, and on wych elm at High Elms. 4. Ickham, 1954-59 (D. G. Marsh). : 9. Near Monkton, one, June 27th 1912 (J. W. C. Hunt). 16. Folkestone Town, June 22nd 1953 (A. M. Morley). VARIATION. — In RCK are the following named aberrations: pauper Hoffm., Dover, 1884; trans ad pauper Hoffm., Westerham; sericeata Horhammer, Woolwich Wood, Dover, 1888. First Recorp, 1841: Harrietsham (Stephens, Entomologist, 1: 200). Aleucis distinctata Herrich-Schaffer : pictaria sensu Curtis : Sloe Carpet. Native. Rough commons, bushy places, thickets; on sloe. Nowadays no colony of this species is known to survive in Kent, and the moth seems to have become extinct in all its old localities. Yet, the odd captures within the past 20 years suggest that this very local insect may still persist in the county. In 1952, L. T. Ford and I searched for it assiduously on Dartford Heath but failed to find it, and in that year I also looked for it unsuccessfully at Chattenden. Perhaps the secret of its extreme localism may be found in E. G. Baldwin’s remark of 1858 concerning the larvae (in Ent. week. Int., 4: 102) that “they seem very particular, as they will eat no other blackthorn than what comes from Dartford Heath, unless starved of it”; and of Stainton’s note (loc. cit.) that the “remarkably stunted growth of the sloe bushes there, adds I suppose, to the flavour of the leaves’’. 1. Between Eltham and Birch Wood, two taken in the spring of two successive years (Stephens, Haust., 3: 184). Dartford Heath, one, April 17th 1820, two, May ist 1826, taken by Jos. Standish; another taken mid April by Thomas Marshall (Curtis, Br. Ent. (1833), 447); one taken by B. Standish (1845) (Douglas, Zoologist, 1042); three, 1846 (Stevens, Zoologist, 1347); near Dartford, one, 1852 (Harding, Zoologist, 3532); taken annually 1855-59 (Ent. Ann., 1856: 48; Zoologist, 5209, 6104; Ent. week. Int., 1: 43, 46, 2: 36, 4: 36, 44, 59, 102, 6: 27); in 1858, Newman (Zoologist, 6104) records that he alone knew of 128 specimens taken on Dartford Heath that year; and the same observer (Entomologist, 5: 382) states that the larva when a fortnight old “may be beaten... from the dwarf blackthorn ... at Dartford Heath . | .’; two moths taken by A. H. Jones, April 1874 (Fenn, Diary); one taken by Le i. Ford on_a sloe bush c. 1913, apparently the last to be seen on Dartford Heath (C.-H.). 2. Belvedere, two taken by W. Marshall “sometime ago” at Belve- dere, on the road from the Leather Bottle to the marshes (Fenn, Diary, 28.vii. 1883). 6. Gravesend*, one in H. D. Stockwell coll. labelled “Gravesend” [c. 1880] (C.-H.). 6a. Chattenden, not uncommon, c. 1908 (H. C. Huggins). 9. Haine, Margate, two taken by H. G. Gomm, April 7th 1920, in H. G. Gomm coll. (C.-H.). 11. Maidstone Town, one on a gas lamp, c. 1896 (F. T. Grant). Ulcombe, one taken in a light trap by R. Knight, in his garden, 1975 (I. A. Watkinson). (172) LEPIDOPTERA OF KENT 12. Charing*, one by Thomas Marshall (Curtis, Joc. cit.). Near Ashford*, one, April 23rd 1900 (Chittenden, Entomologist, 33: 307). 13. Tunbridge Wells district* (R. H. Rattray in Knipe, 1916); scarce (M. M. Phipps in Knipe, 1916). Goudhurst, one, April 6th 1960 (W. V. D. Bolt). First Recorp, 1831: Stephens, Haust., 3: 184. Theria rupicapraria Denis & Schiffermiiller : Early Moth. Native. Hedgerows, thickets, scrub; on hawthorn, sloe. Found in all divisions: once only in 15. The moth normally appears in February and March, but in 1949 it was reported as having been seen in Kent on January 5th (Proc. S. Lond. ent. nat. Hist. Soc., 1949-50: 2); and in 1957, W. L. Rudland noted it at light at Wye on January 9th. Chaney (1884-87) gave its time of appearance in the Rochester neighbourhood as from December to April; and Wells (Ent. Rec., 2:87) records one from West Wickham Wood on April 14th (in 1891). Many observers have recorded finding the larva on both sloe and hawthorn. For example, plentifully at Dartford on hawthorn, June 10th 1924 (A. R. Kidner, Diary); and D. R. M. Long found it on sloe at Shoreham and Eynsford. 15. Dungeness, one, February 24th 1971 (R. E. Scott). First REcorp, 1859: Tenterden, abundant (Stainton, Man., 2: 70). Campaea margaritata L. : Light Emerald. Native. Woods, bushy places, orchards; on hawthorn, hazel, Ligustrum vulgare, beech, birch, ash, apple. Recorded from all divisions; few records for 2, 4, 15. ‘‘Generally common” (V.C.H., 1908). There appears to be a partial second generation some years, e.g. Strood, August 31st 1889 (Tutt, Ent. Rec., 1: 19); Sevenscore, September 3rd (1), 10th (1) 1926 (J. W. C. Hunt); Folkestone, September 2nd 1953 (Morley, Proc. S. Lond. ent. nat. Hist. Soc., 1953-54: 38); Ham Street, September 8th 1950 (R. W. Parfitt); Broad Oak, September 21st 1951 (Chalmers-Hunt, Ent. Rec., 64:54); Margate, September 28th 1921 (H. G. Gomm); Folkestone Warren, September 25th 1956 (W. L. Rud- land); Bexley Woods, a living male exhibited at Ent. Soc. Lond. by L. W. Newman which was taken at rest (Wheeler, Entomologist, 46: 21). The larva has been found by E. A. Sadler at Sevenoaks Weald on wild privet and hazel; by M. Singleton at Willesborough on hawthorn; and by D. R. M. Long at High Elms on birch and ash, and at Lulling- stone on beech and hawthorn. Massee (Rpt. E. Malling Res. Stn., 1939: 7 pprceords finding larvae on apple in an orchard at Rainham in March 1939. 2. Royal Oak, Sheppey, June 3rd 1868 (J. J. Walker MS.). 4. Iickham, occasionally, 1954-59 (D. G. Marsh). 15. Dungeness, June 30th-July 3rd 1954 (R. F. Bretherton). First Recorp, 1858: Pembury (Stainton, Man., 2: 10). Hylaea fasciaria L. : prosapiaria L. : Barred Red. Resident, perhaps native. Woods; on Pinus sylvestris, Picea abies, jegee ce taxifolia. ‘In most of the fir woods in the county” (V.C.H., 1. Birch Wood, occasionally taken (Stephens, Haust., 3: 177). Plum- stead (Courtney, Entomologist, 1: 227). Dartford Heath (Bedell, Zoolo- gist, 1007). West Wickham, larva, April 6th 1861 (Fenn, Ent. week. Int., 10: 195); larva on Scotch fir, imago bred 1864 (Meek, Ent. mon. Mag., 1: 190); one, June 10th 1912, in J. P. Barrett coll. (C.-H.). Bostall Wood (C. Fenn in Wool. Surv., 1909). Keston, Farnborough (W. Barnes in Wool. Surv., 1909). Keston, two larvae, May 19th 1921 (A. R. Kidner, Diary); a larva beaten from pine, April 1949 (W. A. Cope). Bromley, 1959 (3), 1960 (8), 1961 (8), 1962 (17), 1963 (Q), 1964 (25), 1965 (8), 1966 (16), earliest date June 6th 1960, latest date August 23rd 1965, maximum daily total 4) on August 2nd 1962 (D. R. M. Long). Bexley, 6, July 26th 1967 (D. O’Keefe). Lee, one, June 23rd 1959 (C. G. Bruce). 3. Thornden Wood, one, July 12th 1922 (H. G. Gomm, Diary). LEPIDOPTERA OF KENT (173) “ West Blean Wood, a larva beaten from pine, April 18th 1939; female on pine trunk, July 6th 1946 (C.-H.). 5. Downe (W. Barnes in Wool. Surv., 1909). 6. Greenhithe, in light trap (A. B. Farn MS.). Cuxton, pre. 1890 (see under Variation). Otford, 1955 (W. B. L. Manley in de Worms, Lond. Nat., 1957: 153). 7. Darland Hill, one (Chaney, 1884-87). Sharsted (H. C. Huggins). Westwell (Scott, 1936). 8. Folkestone* (Ullyett, 1880). Betteshanger (A. M. Morley teste BE. & Y., 1949). Chillenden, one, July 17th 1955 (W. D. Bowden). West Wood, ¢, June 12th 1949 (Morley, Trans. Folkestone nat. Hist. Soc., 1949-50: 18); three, June 29th 1957 (A. M. Morley). 10. Westerham (see First Record); July 5th 1913 (Adkin, Proc. S. Lond. ent. nat. Hist. Soc., 1913-14: 117); (R. C. Edwards). Seal Chart (Carrington, Entomologist, 13:79); one, July 20th 1888 (Fenn, Diary); larvae (Adkin, Proc. S. Lond. ent. nat. Hist. Soc., 1905-06: 41). Hosey Common, larva, September 1912, reared (Gillett, Diary). Brasted (R. M. Prideaux). Sevenoaks, two, June 15th 1919 (Gillett, Diary); 1939 (F. D. Greenwood). Goodly Stock, 2, July 6th 1956 (C.-H.). - 11. Harrietsham (Stephens, Entomologist, 1: 200). Wateringbury, one bred 1910, in E. Goodwin coll. (C.-H.). Shipborne, one, 1912, in P. A. & D. J. A. Buxton coll. (C.-H.). Aylesford, at light, 1952 (1), 1953 (4), 1955 (G. A. N. Davis). 12. Ham Street (Scott, 1936); Orlestone Woods, one, July 15th 1962 (G. Haggett); and others since, including green abs. (see under Variation). Ashford, in garden, July 13th 1955, June 10th 1956, July 1961 (P. Cue MS.). Willesborough, two, July 20th-2ist 1956 (W. L. Rudland). Orlestone Woods, April 11th 1977, one larva on Picea abies, two larvae on P. taxifolia (B. Skinner and C.-H.). 13. Pembury (Stainton, Man., 2:11). Tunbridge Wells, fairly fre- quent (Knipe, 1916). Groombridge (Bull, Proc. §. Lond. ent. nat. Hist. Soc., 1931-32: 59). Goudhurst, one at light, 1950 (W. F. Hodge). VARIATION. — Davis (Bull. Kent Fid. Cl., 1:6) states that at Aylesford in 1955, the species was “‘represented by both the pale and dark brown forms’’. I have one of his ‘‘dark brown forms’ from there dated S THE OBSERVER’S POCKET SERIES The very first title in The Observer’s Pocket Series was THE OBSERVER’S BOOK OF BIRDS which was published in 1937. Now 40 years later and over 60 more titles, The Observer’s Pocket Series still meets with unrivalled praise from numerous organisations, the press, and the teaching profession. 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For full details of publications and activities, please write (enclosing 5p stamp to cover postage) to: — R. D. HILLIARD, Hon. Advertising Secretary, A.E.S., 18 Golf Close, Stanmore, Middlesex. BRITISH NATURALISTS’ ASSOCIATION has twenty active branches in Britain and a world-wide membership: It’s official organ, Country-Side (published three times a year), is the oldest-established British magazine devoted to general natural history Membership subscription £1.50 per annum Full details and application form (s.a.e.) obtainable from: B.N.A., ‘Willowfield’, Boyneswood Rd., Four Marks, Alton, Hants THE NATURALIST (founded 1875) A Quarterly Illustrated Journal of Natural History Edited by M. R. D. SEAWARD, M.Sc., Ph.D. Annual subscription: £4.00 (post free) Single numbers £1.00 Separates of the collected instalments of the:— LEPIDOPTERA OF YORKSHIRE (Macrolepidoptera) which appeared serially in The Naturalist (1967-1970) are also available on application. Price 50p plus 9p postage Also MARCROLEPIDOPTERA OF SPURN HEAD, E. YORKSHIRE (The Naturalist 1974). Price 25p, plus 64p postage The Editor of the Naturalist, University of Bradford, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD7 1DP PLATE XIV 189 New Palaearctic Butterflies By Dr. L. G. HiccGins* A new subspecies of Melanargia galathea L., the spring brood of Mellicta deione Geyer and the female of Melitaea sarvistana Wiltshire, hitherto unknown, are described and figured. Melanargia galathea origo subsp. nov. (figures 1-5) é forewing costa 24-25 mm., like M.g. lachesis of the small form alta Oberthur, upperside white areas extensive, veins lined black, forewing cell-space elongate, black dis- coidal markings variable, often greatly reduced; hindwing upperside black basal and discal markings vestigial if present; underside veins firmly lined black, forewing black discoidal markings reduced or vestigial, hindwing underside ground- colour faintly yellowish, discal band complete in outline, filled grey in some specimens. 2 forewing costa 27 mm., upperside similar, ground- colour faintly yellowish, discal band dark grey. Male genitalia (text figure), like M.g. lucasi, in side view brachia shorter and wider, tegumen more steeply domed, vinculum sharply angled at junction with peduncle, valve rather narrow, terminal tooth single. M. galathea origo & genitalia x 50 Distribution. All specimens were taken by Douglas Cotrill in a single colony in N.E. Iran, about 80 miles east of Gorgan, on June 21st, 1973, altitude 800 m. 6 holotype (fig. 1) and 2 allotype (fig. 2) are now in coll. British Museum (N.H.). Three ¢¢ paratypes are figured are in the author’s collection; 4¢ and 22 paratypes are in coll. D. C. Cottrill. * Focklesbrook Farm, Chobham, Woking, Surrey. 190 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD = 15/VII-VIII/77 Among the subspecies of M. galathea so far described, the firmly black-lined wing-veins and the ¢-genitalia of origo both recall M.g. lucasi Rambur, while on the upperside the elongate forewing cell suggests M.g. lachesis Hubner. This last feature is present in many specimens of M.g elbursica de Lesse, but this rather heavily marked form is much closer to M.g. galathea in most respects. Melitaea sarvistana Wiltshire (figure 6, 2°, figure 7, ¢) This species was discovered in S.W. Iran by E. P. Wilt- shire, who described and figured the male in 1941. The female remained unknown until 1972, when specimens were collected by Douglas Cottrill some distance north of Shiraz. The example now illustrated was selected from four of these specimens now in my collection. On both surfaces these scarcely differ from males, with very little variation, but on the forewing upperside the pale postdiscal markings are some- M. sarvistana 2 genitalia X 50 times more prominent, pale yellow or white. The °%-genitalia (text figure) confirm a close relationship with M. phoebe Denis & Schiffermiiller. Ref.: Wiltshire, E. P., 1941. J. Bom- bay Nat. Hist. Soc., 42: 473 and figure. NEW PALAEARCTIC BUTTERFLIES 191 Mellicta deione rosinae Rebel 1911 (figures 7, 8) Description. Both sexes large, ¢ forewing 23 mm., upperside ground-colour dark fulvous, not unlike M.d. berisalii but larger and black markings notably heavier; hind- wing upperside has a broad, black area in space lc and space 2, marginal fulvous lunules well defined; hindwing underside discal and submarginal bands intense, fiery orange-red. 2 forewing 25-26 mm., similar to ¢ but larger, forewing upperside post-discal band slightly yellowish in three speci- mens, but colour contrast little developed in this series, although sometimes present in females in another series from the same area. Described from 2 ¢¢, 6 22 taken by Mr. H. J. Henriksen (Denmark), on April 19th-27th, 1972 in the ‘Serra da Monchique, Algarve, S. Portugal. These specimens represent the first generation; specimens of the second generation from this locality have not been seen. Because of their large size and dark appearance they are hard to recognise as a form of M. deione, and at first sight I thought they might deserve description as an undescribed subspecies. M.d. rosinae was described by Rebel from specimens bred from larvae found in April at Cintra, north of the Tagus; the butterflies emerged in July, i.e. second generation. Males are of average size, forewing 17-18 mm., upperside rather dark fulvous and heavily marked, but unlike the large speci- mens taken by Mr. Henriksen. Specimens of the first brood from Cintra have not been seen. I believe now that the large April specimens must represent the first generation of M.d. rosinae. These, with their striking characters so unlike all other known subspecies of deione, need this short description and illustration. Mr. Henriksen has kindly presented male and female specimens to the British Museum. HELINA PROTUBERANS ZETT. (Dipt.: MUuSCIDAE) NEw TO KENT AND S.E. ENGLAND. — A & Helina of a species unfamiliar to me, taken at Sandwich Bay, E. Kent (8.vi.66), later turned out to belong to this local sandhill-frequenting species —a determination for which, among hundreds of others, I am indebted to the kindness of my friend Mr. E. A. Fonseca. The present capture would seem to constitute a new record not only for Kent but for south-east England as a whole, since the distribution given by Fonseca (1968, Handb. Ident. Brit. Ins., 10 (4b): 45) includes no county nearer than Hants. and Norfolk. H. protuberans seems thus to have a strong western bias in the south, extending to Cornwall and Anglesey; its distribution is somewhat reminiscent of that of another insect with a similar habitat, namely the tiger-beetle Cicindela maritima Latr. & Dej., which also occurs nowhere else in Kent (or the whole south-east sector?) but at Sandwich Bay. — A. A. ALLEN, 49 Montcalm Road, Charlton, London, SE7 8QG. 192 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD = _15/ VII-VIII/77 The Scarcity of the Orange-tailed Clearwing (Aegeria andrenaeformis Laspeyres) By M. R. BRITTON* As during the last three winters searching for Aegeria andrenaeformis larva has hardly given the sort of results I expected from a study of what current literature I could muster, I thought my findings might be of interest to, or help to, other andrenaeformis sufferers. The literature I have used is AES Leaflet No. 18 “Collecting Clearwings” (1946), and “The Sesiidae of Fennoscandia end Denmark”’ by Fibiger and Kristensen (1974). I first decided to search scarp slope localities on the Chilterns as these chalk downs are most local to me. In three separate localities I found a fair amount of Wayfaring Tree (Virburnun lantana) with numerous old, much enlarged, blackened exit holes, but nothing that looked at all recent. This was after about 60 hours of searching in the 1974/75 winter. Therefore, I concluded that either my eyesight was failing or it was NOT true that ‘“‘old exit holes are a certain indication of the presence of the species in a locality’. From all three winters I retired puzzled and defeated with only two or three twigs cut and these showing very little real hope of occupance by a larva as was born out the next summer, despite plenty of watering of the twigs which were standing upright in damp sand. In the 1975/76 winter I started again even more deter- mined but convinced that the tried localities were dead ducks. Mr. B. R. Baker of Reading suggested a different Chiltern locality, and here, sure enough, the exit holes looked fresher though the vast majority were the usual much enlarged and blackened, ancient ones. The fresh holes were uncapped with a few very symmetrical and clear cut in shape giving cause at last for real hope. However, the majority had coarse frass protruding from the exit hole in the uncapped area which I heard rumoured was a sure sign of a fine series of ichneumon flies. A visit with Paul Stirling and Danny Saunders to the North Downs showed fewer and smaller bushes than on the Chilterns and a large amount of hawthorn scrub. The usual old exit holes were found and then to my amazement a capped exit just where a bramble passed low down between a Y fork. The slight rupture at the edge of the cap showed yellowish frass (5), and the cap faced inwards in the Y fork. Further visits to the Chilterns locality produced further uncapped holes, quite fresh looking. One such hole almost joined on to an ancient hole (2). Whilst cutting out a twig with just such a hole, I saw to my surprise and horror a perfect sunken cap at the top inch of the removed section (6). I had failed to see it because the tree was in a ditch and the capped side of the branch within a few inches of the edge of * 27 Patricia Close, Slough, Berks., SL1 SHT. PLATE XV Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 THE SCARCITY OF THE ORANGE-TAILED CLEARWING 193 the ditch. As the exit hole is usually a few inches below the larval chamber, I cut the bottom section off the discarded stem, split it and was faced by an indignant andrenaeformis larva in its pupal chamber, so I promptly renewed his privacy by taping him up. On a further visit I discovered no capped or uncapped holes but only three small ruptures in the bark that looked like small knife marks, tooth marks or scuffings. The edge of these marks was hard tapered bark and their shape almost random and quite assymetrical. Scratching with my finger nail showed a faint hole with a faint hint of frass but this was probably wishful thinking. There was no reddish or brownish edge of a hole as was usual with the fresh uncapped exit holes. I took these three scuffs because I found little else that visit, or I would certainly have ignored them. Two of the three scuffs each produced an andrenaeformis! !! (3, 4). On another visit I searched a likely looking, sheltered but sun-exposed bush and finding a newish uncapped hole cut the twig off and was about to discard the end of the twig when I was very surprised to spot a capped exit in a twig barely 4” in diameter and at a Y junction of two even smaller twigs (7). Later I climbed a large tree to examine the topmost branches and in the final terminal shoot spotted a large uncapped exit extruding much frass (1). Now I had about six or seven clearly uncapped, fresh exit holes of which all but two had frass showing in a greater or lesser amount, and about four or five extremely dubious looking bark scuffings that could have been twig rubbings, rabbit nibblings or almost any abrasion. I also had in pride of place three capped exit holes that I was led to believe would produce moths. The indignant larva separated from his capped exit hole was a problem; if I stood him the correct way up he would travel downwards and bump his head on the sand in which his twig was standing; if I inverted him, would he still try to go downwards and fail to find the exit? Well, he was a sensible fellow who wriggled upwards and protruded his pupal case from the centre of the cut and inverted stem. The three capped stems produced only this one moth! The uncapped stems produced two moths, one from e hole with frass. The irregular bark scuffings produced two moths. The moths ignored much of the perfect May weather and waited until I was in Scotland before emerging, so ‘t was just as well that I covered them with towels to stop the sunlight exciting them until I returned home. I bred three types of parasitic flies yet to be identified. The capped stems from the North Downs and the very narrow twig showed rather blackened tunnels when opened and no signs of larva, desiccated or otherwise. So perhaps the caps were covers of previous years’ holes where the larva had died or been parasitised? As the twigs were well-watered and in a cool position, I doubt if they had dried out. With the 194 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD = 15/ VIJ-VIII/77 exception of the perfect looking cap (6) which, separated from the larval stem which produced a moth, it seemed from my small sample of collected twigs that the generalisation that unlikely and dubious looking scuffs or uncapped holes extruding frass are more likely to produce moths than the capped exit holes, is true. Perhaps we do not know as much about this moth as we think we do? If the data on the stems mentioned in the above account is of any help, here they are: — Capped/ Height Uncapped Stem Above | Position Exit Hole Frass Cap Size |Diameter| Ground | of Bush Moth 2 ee ee Oe Oe ee Fig. 1 | Uncapped | Yellowish] 7;” x 3” 137 18 ft. | Edge of Yes thicket Fig. 2 | Uncapped | None 7<” round 3” Bai Clearing} Yes Fig. 3 | Uncapped | Yellow Shapeless = 3ft. | Clearing] Yes Fig.4 | Uncapped | None Shapeless = 2 ft. | Clearmey i es Fig.5 | Capped Yellow 4” round oad 1ft. | Clearing} No Fig. 6 | Capped None ye" x 2” 12” Quik. Ditch Yes Fig. 7 | Capped Orange aie re? 3” 6ft. | Clearing} No INFURCITINEA ARGENTIMACULELLA STAINTON (LEP.: TINEIDAE) IN KENT. — On the 8th of May, 1977 I paid a visit, in company with Mr. M. Newcombe, to Duncan Down, just outside Whitstable for the purpose of recording anything of interest. The Down is under some pressure for development by the Urban District Council which development is being resisted by local amenity and Natural History Societies. The weather was not all that could be desired and created a dearth of insects. Several moths were taken including a specimen of Eupithecia dodoneata Guenee, but the most interesting thing was the discovery of larval tubes of J. argentimaculella Staint. amongst lichen on the lower trunks of some very large old willows growing by the edge of a stream in a valley on the down. I cut one larval tube away and, at home under the microscope, managed to open this and observe the larva, which is now feeding and extending the tube on to fresh lichen. — E. S. BRADFORD, 6 Maple Court, Drayton Road, Boreham Wood, Herts. PLATE XVI Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 0 a ey, ¥ st *\ i? 195 Coleoptera from Rothamsted light traps at Monks Wood National Nature Reserve, Cambridgeshire during 1976 By Dr. R. CoLIn WELCH* Aithough a wide variety of light traps are used extensively by Lepidopterists, comparatively little attention has been paid in the British Isles to the representatives of other orders which may be caught. Indeed, large Burying beetles of the genus Necrophorus and a number of Chafers and Dung beetles of the family Scarabaeidae are generally quickly discarded since they rapidly render delicate moths useless. Walsh & Dibb (1954) state “those species (of Coleoptera) recorded as coming to light in Britain are only common species”, and they list only ten examples. This has been the long-held belief by many entomologists and goes some way to explaining the lack of information, and indeed interest in this method of collecting Coleoptera. A notable exception has proved to be Odontaeus armiger (Scop.) one of our rarer Scarabaeidae. Britton (1956) describes it as “‘very rare, S.E. England, flies in daylight and at dusk’’. Since then it has, to my knowledge, been taken six times in mercury vapour traps. Sir Eric Ansorge (1963) recorded it three times in Buckinghamshire; D. Tozer took three in June 1964, at Bedford Purlieus in the Soke of Peter- borough (Vice County 32) (see Peterken & Welch, 1975), and J. N. Greatorex-Davies (pers. comm.) caught one female on 22nd July, 1955, near Llanstephen, Powys (Vice County 43). Two standard Rothamsted traps (Williams, 1948) are operated throughout the year at Monks Wood. One is situated in the corner of the Meteorological enclosure in an open area just south of the station buildings (Site A), whilst the other is situated in Compartment 22a within Monks Wood N.N.R. (Site B). During 1976 Mr. Greatorex-Davies agreed to remove all Coleoptera when sorting the Lepidoptera catches. During the first four months 33 specimens of 14 species were collected, followed by 239 (31 spp.) in May and 712 individuals of 42 species in June. At this point, because of the volume of the catch and the pressure of other work, sampling stopped, although Site B was sampled on July Ist and Site A on August 12th. The July sample contained 39 specimens of 5 species recorded in June, whereas 4 of the 6 species (12 specimens) taken in August had not been recorded in the traps during the first half of the year. In all 1,035 specimens of 76 species were collected during 183 trapping nights. 32 species were collected from Site A only, 28 spp. from Site B, with the remaining 16 spp. occurring at both sites. The two families Cantharidae (14 spp.) and Lagriidae (1 sp.) made up 87% of the catch, with Lagria hirta (23%) and Malthinus flaveolus (22%) the most abundant. 38 species were represented by single specimens equally divided between the two sites, although the Site B catch included two * Institute of Terrestrial Ecology, Monks Wood Experimental Station, Abbots Ripton, Huntingdon, Cambs., PE17 2LS. 196 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD =_15/ VII-VIII/77 larvae; an unidentified Dromius sp. (Carabidae) and one Exochomus quadripustulatus (Coccinellidae). It is well known that in some species of Coleoptera only the males are attracted to light, as in the sexually dimorphic Lampyris noctiluca, and species in which the males have larger eyes, e.g. Lagria hirta and Denticollis linearis. All specimens collected were sexed and this produced some interesting results among the Cantharidae where < 1% were females, and these were restricted to two species of Malthinus. In both cases the females were taken in the wooded Site B. Although no parti- cularly rare species were collected, eight were previously unrecorded from the Reserve and two are probably new records for Vice County 31 (Huntingdonshire). Thus even in a well collected locality the results have been rewarding enough to repeat recording of Coleoptera in the light traps during 1977. In the following complete list of species trapped, nomen- clature follows Kloet & Hincks (1945) with some minor updating: — CARABIDAE Amara apricaria (Pk.), 12/8, 2 ¢%¢, 3 22 (A). Demetrias atricapillus (L.), 27-28/2, 1 ¢ (B.). Dromius quadrimaculatus (L.), 26-28/3, 1 2 (B). Dromius sp., 21-23/5, 1 larva (B). STAPHYLINIDAE Anotylus sculpturatus (Gr.), 8/6, 1 2 (A), 1 2 (B); 15/6, 1 2 (A). A. tetracarinatus (Block), 18/5, 1 2 (A). Platystethus nitens Sahlb., 7-9/5, 1 ¢ (A). Lathrobium fulvipenne (Gr.), 21-23/5, 1 2 (A). Xantholinus glabratus (Gr.), 7-9/5, 1 3 (B). Tachyporus chrysomelinus (L.), 7-9/5, 1 2 (A), 18/5, 1 4 (A). T. hypnorum (F.), 14-16/5, 1 2 (A). Leptusa fumida Er., 16/3, 1 2 (B). L. (Pachygluta) ruficollis (Er.), 16/3, 1 2; 17/3, 1 ¢; 26-28/3, 1 ¢ (all B). Autalia rivularis (Gr.), 18-20/6, 1 ¢ (A). Amischa analis (Gr.), 11-13/6, 1 2 (A) Atheta (Aloconota) gregaria (Er.), single 6 ¢ 7-9/5, 14-16/5 & 18/5; 2 ¢ 4 21-23/5; 2 22 10-13/6 (all A). A. (Tetropla) crassicornis (F.), 2-4/4, VgdtiinO/5:; US Gs54-9/5: 2 ¢ bide Call OB): vd 2/Sgulind [Asis (Acrotona) fungi (Gr.), 5/5, 2 22 (A). Aleuonota rufotesta- ceus (Kr.), 7-9/5, 1 2 (B). Tinotus morion Gr., 22/6, 1 2 (A). Oxypoda brevicornis (Steph.), 7-9/5, 1 2 (A). Aleochara sparsa Heer, 20-22/2..14.-6. @B). A. ‘stichat dike) 24:& 2527/6) 2722 (B). SCARABAEIDAE Aphodius rufipes (L.), 18/6-1/7, two single ¢¢4 (B); single 29-01 (A) 3: @). ELATERIDAE Melanotus rufipes Hbst., 21-23/5, 2 $6; 27/5, 1 ¢ (all B). Denticollis linearis (L.), 21/5-14/6, 6 ¢¢ (all B). Dalopius marginatus (L.), 14/6, 1 ¢, 25-27/6, 1 2 (both B). TRIXAGIDAE Trixagus obtusus Curt., single specimens 30/4-3/5 (A) & 8/6 (B); six specimens 25-27/6 (A). LAMPYRIDAE Lampyris noctiluca (L.), 25-27/5, 1 & (B). a A CLEOPTERA FROM ROTHAMSTED LIGHT TRAPS 197 CANTHARIDAE Cantharis nigricans (Muell.), 21-23/5, 1 ¢ (B); 9/6, 1 @ (A). C. livida L., 21/5-23/6, 8 24 (6 A, 2 B); single specimens except 3 on 15/6. C. rufa L., 10/6, | ¢ (A). C-fulvicollis F., 25-27/6, 2 64 (A). C. cryptica Ashe, 24 & 25-27/6, single ¢ ¢ (both A). C. decipiens Baudi, single ¢¢ 18/5 & 7/6 (B) and 25-27/6 (A). Rhagonycha lutea (Muell.), 25-27/6, 1 ¢ (A). R. fulva Scop., 23-30/6, all males, 33 (A) 26 (B). R. lignosa (Muell.), 21/5-22/6, 191 ¢¢ (all B). Malthinus flaveolus (Pk.), 9/6-1/7, 227 646, 3 22 (25-27/6) (all B). M. fasciatus (Ol.), 21/6, 1 6 (B). Malthodes marginatus (Lat.), 5/5-7/6, 79 ¢¢ (B), 2 64 (18 & 24/5) (A). M. guttifer Kies., 21/6-1/7, 49 26 (B); 1 3 (24/6) (A). M. minimus (L.), 18/6-1/7, 12 64 (A); Saco 5.5 2. (B). ANOBIIDAE Dryophilus pusillus (Gyll.), 8/6, 1 ¢ (B). MELYRIDAE Dasytes aerosus Kies., 17/5-27/6, 3 ¢¢, 4 22, all single specimens (all B). NITIDULIDAE Meligethes aeneus (F.), 25-27/6, 1 2 (A). M. nigrescens Steph., ao eno (6): Epuraea: distincta: (Grim:), 6/5, 1 °2. (CB). 2. melanocephala (Marsh.), 20/4, i 2 (B); 7-9/5, 1 ¢@ (A). PHALACRIDAE Stilbus. testaceus (Pz.), 14/1, 1 & (A); 28/6, 2 22 (A & B); yan ce ..1 2 (A): CRY PTOPHAGIDAE Antherophagus nigricornis (F.), 30/6, 1 2 (B). Atomaria apicalis Er., 25-27/6, 1 é (A). A. linearis Steph., 10/5-22/6, 5 single ? 2 (all A). COCCINELLIDAE Adalia bipunctata (L.), 18/3, 1 ¢; 6/4, 1 2 (both A). A. decempunctata (L.), 23/6, 1 ¢; 25-27/6, 1 2 (both A). Cocci- nella septempunctata L., 11-13/6, 1 2 (A). C. undecimpunctata (L.), 13-15/2 & 5/5, single 22 (both A). Calvia quattuor- decimguttata (L.), 9/6, 1 ¢ (B). Exochomus quadripustulatus (L.), 30/6, 1 larva (B). LATHRIDIIDAE Enicmus histrio Joy, 7-9/5, 1 2 (B). CISIDAE Cis bilamellatus Fowl., 7-9/5, 1 2; 21-23/5; 4/6, 2 2° (all B). Rhopalondontus fronticornis Pz., 12/8, 1 8, 1 2 (A). MYCETOPHAGIDAE Mycetophagus atomarius F., 7-9/5, 1 2 (A). Typhaea stercorea (L.), 25-27/6, 1 2 (A). LAGRITIDAE Lagria hirta (L.), 24/6-1/7, all 8, 240 (B), 3 (A). MELANDRYIDAE Orchesia minor Walk., 7-9/5, 1 @ (B). Conopalpus testaceus (Ol.), 25-27/6, 1 é (A). SCRAPTITDAE Anaspis maculata Geoff. in Fourc., 26/5, 1 é (B). 198 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD = 15/ VII-VIII/77 ANTHICIDAE Anthicus floralis (L.), 25-27/6, 1 é (A). BRUCHIDAE Bruchus affinis Froeh., 12/8, 1 2 (A). CHRYSOMELIDAE Longitarsus luridus (Scop.), 5/1-31/3, 5 2 (all A). L. suturellus (Duft.), 12/8, 1 ¢ (A). Psylliodes chrysocephala L., 5/1-31/3,5 4,4 22 (B),2 22 (A). CURCULIONIDAE Sitona lineatus (L.), 2-4/4, 1 ¢ (A); 8/4, 1 ¢ (A); 11/4, 1 (B). S. suturalis Steph., 26/2, 1 ¢ (A). Dorytomus dejeani Faust., 25-27/6, 1 2 (B). Rhynchaenus quercus (L.), 25-27/6 & 29/6, two single 2 2 (both B). Acknowledgments It is a pleasure to thank J. N. Greatorex-Davies, without whose diligence in sorting the scale covered specimens from the non-lepidopterous debris in the light traps, this work would not have been possible. References Ansorge, Sir E. 1963. Odontaeus armiger Srp). einige Scarabaeidae) in Buckinghamshire. Entomologist’s Gaz., 14:1 Britton, E. B. 1956. te | Ident. Brit. =. 5 (11), Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea, 29 p Kloet, G. S. & Hi tinck ‘W. D. 1945. A Checklist of British Insects, Stockport, 483 pp. Peterken, G. F. & Welch, R. C. 1975. Bedford Purlieus, Its History, Ecology and Management. Monk’s Wood Experimental Station Se a No. 7. Institute of Terrestrial Ecology, Abbots Ripton, 209 pp. Walsh, & B. & Dibb, J. R. 1954. A Coleopterist’s Handbook, The Amateur Entomologist’ s Society, London, 120 pp. Williams, C. B. 1948. The Rothamsted light trap. Proc. R. ent. Soc. Lond., A, 23: 80-5. THE SPANISH FLY OR BLISTER BEETLE: LYTTA VESICATORIA L. (CoL.: MELOIDAE). — Owing to its rarity and erratic appear- ance, many experienced coleopterists have never seen this fine brilliant green beetle, and it would be interesting to know the last time it was noticed in Britain. I once took the species more than 40 years ago and have never observed it on any other occasion. I failed to publish the record at the time, and as it may be of interest, do so now very belatedly. It was in the summer of 1935 or 1936 that I saw some 20-30 of these beetles. They were flying about in the warm sun and settling on the leaves of an ash growing in my garden at Broad Oak, near Canterbury. The insect used to be noted for its aphro- disian properties and it is from it that oil of cantharides is extracted. There is a good coloured illustration of the beetle in Hofmann, The Young Beetle-Collector’s Handbook (1908), plate 12, fig. 29. — J. M. CHaLmMers-HUnrt. 199 Hymenia recurvalis (Fab.) and other Lepidoptera at Swanage, October 1976 By P. M. STIRLING* Swanage, Dorset, has provided many interesting lepidop- tera in the autumn during previous years, and accordingly on the 8th October, 1976, with my wife and Jim Porter, we visited the well-known Durlston Head locality. As this area is now part of the local National Park, we obtained permission from the warden to use light traps and placed these overlooking the steep clifis. We also set up a Heath trap beneath some Holm Oaks by the car park. The early part of the evening was fairly mild and pro- duced a few of the more general autumn moths such as Rhizedra lutosa (Hiibn.), Omphaloscelis lunosa (Haw.), Allophyes oxyacanthae (Linn.), Noctua pronuba (Linn.), N. comes (Hiibn.) and Agrochola lychnidis (D. & S.), whilst the more interesting species were represented by Leucochlaena oditis (Hiibn.), Aporophyla australis (Bois.), N. nigra (Haw.), Mythimna I-album (Linn.) and Dasypolia templi (Thunb.). We also noted a single specimen of Lithophane leautieri (Bois.). A fair amount of the ivy was in bloom and from this we took three L. socia (Hufn.), although surprisingly we were not able to record Xylena vetusta (Hiibn.) from this blossom; a species which in my experience can readily be found at this locality during early October. Quite late in the evening Jim Porter examined his Heath trap, and from the few moths it contained removed a rather striking brown and white marked pyrale. This he willingly gave to me not having any interest in the microlepidoptera himself. Another pyrale recorded at light and well known for its migratory habits was Nomophila noctuella (D. & S.). Of the larger migrant species we noted Peridroma saucia (Hiibn.), Agrotis ipsilon (Hufn.) and Autographa gamma (Linn.). It soon proved difficult to determine the brown and white pyrale, and it was eventually taken to the British Museum (N.H.) where it was recognised as Hymenia recurvalis (Fab.). This species is a rare migrant not only to the British Isles but to most of Europe, and in its more tropical haunts is a serious pest of root and cereal crops where it is known as the Beet Webworm, and can apparently complete its entire life cycle in four weeks. It has a more usual distribution in the Palaearctic region from Syria to Japan and the Oriental, Australasian and Ethiopian regions; it is also recorded from North, Central and South America and the West Indies. Recent studies, however, indicate that similar specimens are not all applicable to just the one species and that recurvalis is not such a cosmopolitan species as has previously been supposed. Robin Mere was the first person to take the moth in England when he found a specimen in his garden light trap * 83 Grasmere Road, Purley, Surrey, CR2 1DZ. 200 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD = 15/VII-VIII/77 on 5.ix.1951, and another was recorded later that year at Swanage. Since then several more examples have been noted from the south of England. This specimen is in the British Museum (N.H.). My thanks are due to Mr. Michael Shaffer of the Natural History Museum for determination of the species, and Jim Porter for parting with the moth in the first place. References Lees, F. H. 1952. Ent. Rec., 64: 70. Mere, R. M. 1952. Ent. Gaz., 3: 57. Martin, E. 1961. Coridon: 2. Ellerton, 3) 1970: Proc. Brit: Ent. Nat: Hist: Soc.; 3° @): 33. Current Literature Rhopalocera Directory, by John R. Beattie. Insecta Directory volume 1, [ii] + xiv + 365 pp., 1976. Published by J.B. Indexes, Berkeley, California. Paper covers, computer produced offset reproduction. $30.00 ($40.00 to libraries). For anyone who has ever thumbed through endless volumes of the Zoological Record just in case it did ever pick up a second reference to Sinarista, or any other equally obscure butterfly name, the Rhopalocera Directory is a god- send. The Directory is based on the Archiv fiir Naturgeschichte 1834-7, the Bericht tiber die wissenschaftlichen Leistungen im Gebiete der Entomologie 1838-63, and the Systematic Index of the Zoological Record 1864-1971. The first 64 pages indicate the location of all generic name citations in the butterfly sections of these works, and pages 65-292 do the same for all trivial name citations. Pages 293-300 lists the allocation of generic names to family (as treated at various times in the Bericht and Zoo. Rec.), and pages 301-365 comprise a clever ‘“‘inverse sort’? of names, intended to help trace misspellings. The efficient thinking behind the project, and how to use the Directory, are briefly but clearly outlined in the 14-page introductory section. Even though it is a “‘tertiary’’ source (as its author is at pains to point out), access to the Directory is a must for any butterfly specialist. It makes use of the Zoological Record, especially for rarely quoted species of genera, immeasurably quicker and more reliable—though I doubt it would ever become “‘fun’’ as Beattie suggests! This is an extraordinary useful work, sensibly produced, and in general difficult to praise too highly. One of my few criticisms is that the opportunity has been lost to fully index W. F. Kirby’s pioneering Synonymic Catalogue of Diurnal Lepidoptera (1871 and 1877) at the same time—this would have given some coverage to practically all butterfly names back to 1758. But the Rhopalocera Directory will rightly take its place alongside “‘Kirby’’, ‘‘Seitz’’, ““Lep. Cat.”’, ““Hemming’’, etc., as one of the first reference sources for any serious systematic treatment of butterflies. Entomologists in general should look forward to the publication of subsequent volumes covering other groups of the Insecta. — R. I. VANE-WRIGHT. 201 Further Notes on Erebia in the French Massif Central By GEOFFREY N. BurTON, B.A.* I sent off 60p for a specimen copy of The Entomologist’s Record in November 1976 and received the October edition. I am sure that I would have sent a subscription anyway, but this copy ensured a swift response on my part, as it contained the first part of M. J. Perceval’s article on Erebia in the Massif Central. This is an area in which I have spent most of my holidays in the last six years and which has really been responsible for my interest in Lepidoptera, which grew out of my efforts to photograph the butterflies I saw and then identify them. My active collecting is now four years old and the large majority of my material comes from this area. In view of the relative paucity of records, a full report of my observations may well be of interest, but at present it is my intention only to add my own comments on Erebia to those of M. J. Perceval. It should be made clear that the area of which I have experience is, by and large, restricted to Cantal, especially around Murat, and including Le Lioran and Puy Mary. I have not visited the Mont Dore area and have not collected around the Gorge du Tarn. Erebia ligea Linn. This species has been present on Piomb du Cantal—East and West sides—and in quite large numbers in the forest above Chambeuil (between Murat and Laveissiére) from 1,000 to 1,385 m. Specimens have been fresh in the first week in August. Average size 25.5 mm. I have encountered none elsewhere, especially not at Puy Mary. Erebia euryale Esp. Found in fresh condition in the first week in August at Puy Mary and above Chambeuil. The upperside markings are fairly consistent, with a well-defined band on the front wings and well-separated but bright spots on the hindwings. The underside is typical of ssp. ‘antevortes’, with almost complete absence of silver bands. Hindwing spots are often reduced. Average size 22 mm. Erebia manto D. & S. My series taken at Puy Mary and above Chambeuil in 1975 and 1976 (July-August), indicate an even more variable situation than that described by M. J. Perceval. The male uppersides are almost all entirely unmarked, as would be expected for ssp. ‘constans’, but i have several specimens with unmistakable red apical flush, similar to ssp. ‘pyrrhula’, although the hindwing markings are still completely absent. The undersides are even more variable and range from com- pletely unmarked—which are really quite rare—to those with a quite extensive forewing flush and hindwing spots (blind). The normal apical spots are not clearly defined and merge * ““Mar-y-Mar’’, Minster Drive, Minster-in-Sheppey, Kent, ME12 2NG. 202 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD = 15/ VII-VIII/77 with the flush. I have only one specimen with eyed apical spots. The females all have upf. red markings (blind), and the unf. have a clearly defined post-discal band with a pale area extending basad. The unh. have a reddish flush and clearly defined yellow spots in S5 and S7 and sometimes, smaller yellow marks in S4, S6 and S8 (or some of these—S8 is commonest). The markings are not as yellow as in ‘manto manto’, nor as extensive, and there is no trace of the basal marks. The males ranged between 19.0 mm. and 21.4 mm. and average 20.1 mm. The females average 21.1 mm. This is at variance with Mr. Perceval’s findings and must surely support the view that some doubt remains about the status of f. ‘enathene’. Erebia epiphron Knoch While I have taken this at Puy Mary, Plomb du Cantal and Chambeuil, I have not found it common in August and can add nothing to Mr. Perceval’s detailed notes. Erebia sudetica Stg. I have found this common at Puy Mary and on the East side of Plomb du Cantal, but it does not seem to be present slightly further East at Chambeuil, nor have I taken it at its type location of Le Lioran, and the development of a ski resort here may well have destroyed it. Specimens taken at both locations in July-August 1975 were very fresh and at Puy Mary, it was the commonest butterfly, present in vast numbers, flying together with a much smaller number of Erebia epiphron, but in 1976 it was absent from Plomb du Cantal and scarce and worn at Puy Mary, due no doubt to the effects of the hot summer. From my series, the upf. band usually extends from Slb-S6 and often contains no black points at all. Points are most common in S4 and S5 and are extremely rare in S6. The uph. usually have four regular red spots, with or without points. The average size of the males is 16.2 mm. and of the females 17.4 mm. I would like to suggest, with some hesitation, that the specific status of ‘lioranus’ remains open to doubt. One of the features which distinguish ‘sudetica’ from ‘melampus’, the point in upf. S6, is extremely rare in my series of ‘lioranus’, although the regularity of the uph. series of spots is constant. Warren (1961) states that in ‘sudetica’, “‘ all the spines (on the valves) are distinctly separated’, whereas in ‘melampus’, . the fine spines are mostly touching”, and that, “‘all the spines in ‘sudetica’ of whatever size, are of heavier build’’. In lioranus’, there appears to be quite a lot of variation and my slide preparations do not clearly or consistently exhibit these features. Higgins (1975) differentiates ‘melampus’ and ‘sudetica’ on the grounds of tooth size and, “‘ ... valve (of ‘sudetica’) even more slender with gentle curve’. Again, my slides are not consistent, but seem to exhibit more often the shape of ‘melampus’. NOTES ON EREBIA IN THE FRENCH MASSIF CENTRAL 203 I draw no conclusions and make no claims at present, as I wish to pursue the question much further. I hope to follow up these points at a later date, but in the meantime, I would be grateful for any comments. Erebia aethiops Esp. I have taken this species above Chambeuil in both 1975 and 1976. It was present in reasonable, but not large, numbers, in fresh condition from 1,100-1,300 m. This extends its range further South from Mr. Perceval’s specimens taken near Condat and seems to indicate that, though local, it is a quite well-established species. I cannot comment on its subspecific status, but my series agrees with Mr. Perceval’s. The undersides are of both the silver and gold types, and the average male size is 23.3 mm. and female 23.8 mm. Erebia meolans de Prun. This butterfly has been present fairly commonly at Puy Mary and above Chambeuil in 1975 and 1976, though females have been quite rare. The upf. bands are very variable, usually extending from Slb or S2 to S6, with white-pupilled ocelli in S4 and S5, and often a smaller one in S2. No specimens have additional ocelli and several have a much reduced one in S2; in some it is absent. Again, in some the post-discal band is much reduced. The uph. are much more faintly marked and the spots (with or without ocelli) are usually widely separated by brown. All the above features seem to me to be well within the normal range of variation. The undersides, however, seem much more unusual. In none is the unf. very dark, and they have an overall reddish (russet) tinge, darkening towards the base. The post-discal band and ocelli largely match the upf. markings, although they are perhaps slightly wider. The unh. are even paler brown and have a distinct silvery post-discal band extending from Slb to S8. Sub-marginally and discally they are again darker, while the base is sometimes again paler. Ocelli are usually completely absent, although in one or two a minute point can be detected in S2. The sizes range from 21.1 mm. to 22.8 mm. and the average is 22.0 mm. This description may appear to be inconsistent with the female of ssp. ‘meolans’, but the overall ground colour is much darker, and they are males. The overall patterning of the unh. is very close to that of E. aethiops, although there is no similarity of ground colour. I have prepared genitalia slides, as I thought perhaps I was missing something obvious and making a simple error in identification, but they are clearly E. meolans, although the valves exhibit some differences from the type shown by L. G. Higgins (op. cit.). What all this may mean, I do not know and at present I do not have sufficient comparative information to allow 204 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD = 15/ VIJ-VIII/77 me to draw conclusions, but is it possible that we have here a ssp. intermediate between ‘meolans’ and ‘stygne’? Postscript It will be seen that, in the preceding notes, I have only referred to the years 1975 and 1976. My observations and records extend further back than this, but I have not used them as I do not consider them sufficiently accurate. Similarly, I have only referred to three or four locations, because my information from these is quite full, but is much reduced from other sites. The summer of 1976 had, apparently, the same effects in France as in England. Everything was much earlier and Erebia, especially, were much scarcer than usual in August, presumably because they were mostly over. References Bretherton, R. F. 1966a. A Distribution List of the Butterflies (Rhopalo- cera) of Western and Southern Europe. Trans. Soc. Br. Ent., i7,.pt. 1. Bretherton, R. F. 1966b. Butterflies in the French Massif Central, July 1966. Ent. Rec., 78: 245-251. Higgins, L. G. 1975. The Classification of European Butterflies, Collins. Higgins, L. G. and Riley, N. D. 1970. A Field Guide to the Butterflies of Britain and Europe. Collins. Perceval, M. J. 1976. Notes on the Erebia of the French Massif Central. Ent. Rec., 88: 241-245, 324-329. Warren, B. C. S. 1961. Structural Characteristics of E. sudetica and E. melampus. Ent. Rec., 73: 188-189. AGROTIS IPSILON HUFNAGEL IN Marcu. — On the night of the 26th March, 1977, I recorded here in my light trap a female example of the Dark Swordgrass, which I presumed was an immigrant. — A. E. C. Apams, Perrins Farm, Woods Green, Wadhurst, East Sussex, TN5 6QN. LONGITARSUS REICHEI ALLARD (COL. CHRYSOMELIDAE) IN WEST SUSSEX ON YET ANOTHER PROBABLE FOODPLANT. — In a note on this little-known Longitarsus (1967, Ent. mon. Mag., 103:154-5), I drew attention to the curious fact that all my four captures of it had been from different host-plants (one Composite, three Labiates) — though one of the latter was not certainly traced. I can now add a further Labiate to the list of its apparent foodplants, having taken a single female by sweeping along a marsh dike at Amberley, West Sussex (13.viii.70), where the marsh wound- wort, Stachys palustris L., grew profusely. As no other plant at all likely to be a host of L. reichei appeared to be present, the probability of the beetle having come off the Stachys is very high. I had already taken the species in East Sussex (/.c.: 154), but the present record should be a new one for the western vice-county.— A. A. ALLEN, 49 Montcalm Road, Charlton, London, SE7 8QG. ne on 205 Observations on Butterflies at Hilton, Derbyshire, 1970-1976, and a day in Devon By A. WM. SPEED* During the six years I have lived at Hilton in South West Derbyshire, 10 miles to the west of Derby, I have only encountered 14 species of butterfly several of which are locally scarce. Consequently the majority of my collecting has been of moths. Whilst reading the various entomological journals on winter evenings armed only with a glass of sherry, I have been transported to many remote and notable haunts in the company of some eminent field lepidopterists. It has occurred to me that on many such journeys the hunting of rarities appears to be of paramount importance. But what is rarity? One morning during June 1976, I was offered an oppor- tunity to find out. The telephone rang. It was a long-standing friend Bryan Thomas of Crewe whom I had introduced to the pursuit of butterflies and moths some three years earlier. He informed me that he would be spending a holiday during early July at Budleigh Salterton in Devon, and said that if while he was there I would care to join him for a day he would meet me at Exeter St. Davids Railway Station. The spot he had in mind to visit was a forest some few miles to the north of Exeter. July 6th was decided upon. The only concern was the weather since I woulc need to set off in the early morning and conditions could deteriorate, but in this summer of summers the fear was to be unfounded. The period between making the arrangement and the day of the trip was filled with thoughts of fritillaries and hairstreaks, gatekeepers and ringlets, rarities indeed to a Derbyshire lad. The day dawned cool and clear and the excitement mounted during the car ride to the station. The train departed at 7.04 right on time. A coffee from the buffet and setile back to drink in both the coffee and the scenery. Even at this hour Meadow browns (Maniola jurtina L.) and unidentified Pierids were up and about, but then this was a day to make the most of. A change of trains at Birmingham and on we sped into the South West. As the journey proceeded I became aware of an eerie difference in the ever changing scene through the carriage window. It was some time before the awful truth dawned. It was the elms. The elms standing in hedgerows and small groups. The elms stark against the horizon. Dead, lifeless. I thought of the communities which must have perished with them. Whole cities, teeming masses all dead. I then consoled myself by thoughts of the abundant supply of wood which was available for the woodboring insects, but it was small consolation set against the loss of these majestic trees. I had, of course, read about the spread of this awful elm disease, * “The Dumbles”’, 14 Field Close, Hilton, Derby. 206 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD = 15/ VII-VIII/77 but I was ill prepared for the scene now presented since the disease had not yet reached Derbyshire. The train ran along with my thoughts and the scene changed. The motorway builders were at work extending the M.5 far into Devon. Thoughts of future journeys by road, but no, they would not afford the same time for relaxa- tion and day-dreaming and such thoughts were quickly dispelled. The train arrived in Exeter at 11.27, the timetable had said it would. Bryan was there looking well tanned from his holiday which had thus far been spent in the pursuit of Grey mullet (Mugil chelo Cuvier) along the river estuaries of South Devon and butterflies. I understand that the prerequisites of mullet fishing include tide tables, therefore, with an accurate watch, a car and a map of the area, the pleasure can be extended by chasing the tides around the coast since mullet come in from the sea on the rising tides. It was immediately obvious that Bryan was bubbling with enthusiasm about something and after a brief exchange of pleasantries I was whisked off to a location which I later discovered was Stoke Woods to be given an introduction to my first hairstreak (Strymonidia w-album L.) the white letter. We had only just entered the wood when we came upon a patch of bramble around which was a myriad of insects which included a good number of white-letter hairstreaks along with a Comma (Polygonia c-album L.) my first encounter with the Comma since seeing one in the middle of the English Channel on a Dover-Boulogne ferry in 1969. I later learned that Bryan having time to spare awaiting my arrival had “discovered’’ this particular spot. I was entranced, two new species. I was persuaded to leave and we motored further northwards to a spot which Bryan had visited during the previous year. As we approached the spot a butterfly was seen gliding very gracefully along in front of the car. It was a flight I had not witnessed before, but was obviously that of a Nymphalid. But which? The flight continued apace, long glides punctuated by an occasional wing beat, a most serene tranquil motion. The insect was identified as camilla and I was immediately reminded that the closely related European species Neptis sappho Pallas and Neptis rivularis Scopoli are called Gliders. Most appro- priate, though White Admiral has more charm at least to me. We stopped the car just off the road in the entrance to a clearing. The sight I beheld was astonishing, and it was some minutes before the whole spectacle registered. It was now midday and the sun was very high and hot. The air was still and there was a quiet transcending beauty. The hedgerow to my right was overgrown with layer on layer of bramble in full bloom. Bacchus himself would surely have approved the banquet. Numerous Silver-washed fritillaries (Argynnis st a A OBSERVATIONS ON BUTTERFLIES AT HILTON, DERBYSHIRE 207 paphia L.) were in attendance, a feast both for them and for me. Another guest was the Gatekeeper (Pyronia tithonus L.) also in numbers, which appeared to wink each time they settled as the underside eyespots were momentarily visible before falling to hide under the hindwings. The central area of the clearing was very dry and parched as a result of the drought we had experienced, but rising from the baked earth were many thistles and these too were the subject of much attention, this time by pre- dominantly Marbled whites (Melanargia galathea L.) with often as many as four vying for the nectar of one bloom. Just then a White Admiral appeared over the hedge to the right followed quickly by a second. The effect of this speciousness was numbing. I feared to speak lest I disturb the tranquility which pervaded. Derbyshire is never like this. It was decided to take lunch before any excursion into the area of woodland surrounding the clearing was under- taken, so we made ourselves comfortable on a handy log and dined on cold chicken salad and dry cider. A gourmet’s delight! Well, the butterflies appeared to be suitably impressed since several endeavoured to share our meal, unless of course it was mere curiosity as to the nature of the two intruders into their world. Bryan suggested he take me along a path leading from the clearing to a spot where had seen White Admirals on his previous visit. So off we set. It was difficult to follow the flight of a single insect as others passed in and out of vision so swiftly causing a constant distraction. Photography was also difficult not because of the lack of a subject willing to pose, but because others wanted to join in for family portraits. It was during this time that I met yet another newcomer the Ringlet (Aphantopus hyperanthus L.) again present in good numbers. The spot where the White Admirals were found was an idyllic place, almost magical. A deep cutting flanked by the ubiquitous brambles. Honeysuckle appeared to wind gently around everything. The trees on the far side of the gulley cast a welcoming shade and we took shelter from the fierce heat for a while and watched the grace of the camillas gliding on so effortlessly to and fro, in and out of the shade, never still. The contrast with the Skippers (Ochlodes venata Bremer and Grey) darting rapidly about in human fashion, with what seemed little purpose, was marked. If only we could conduci our affairs with the grace and pace of the Nymphalids. With such peace and quiet the time was obviously racing by and in order to send me on my return journey fortified, Bryan returned to the car to prepare a snack, and I was left in solitude. On returning to the car two more species came to notice, singletons of both the Brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni L.) and the Dark green fritillary (Mesoacidalia aglaia L.). Tea was taken and we departed feeling a strange mixture of pleasure and sadness. 208 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD ~=_15/ VII-VIII/77 On the train back to Derby I had plenty of time to pause and reflect. An exceptionally enjoyable day? Certainly. Rarities? Well, compared with my local list for Hilton, yes. And memories? Memories to last a lifetime. Days such as these are rare indeed. Butterflies observed at Hilton, Derbyshire, 1970-1976 HESPERIDAE. Ochlodes venata (B. & G.). Several each year 1970-76, although appears to be becoming scarce throughout Derbyshire. PIERIDAE. Gonepteryx rhamni (L.). 9.viii.75 (1), 20.iv.76 (1), 31.v.76 (1); becoming more widespread in Derby- shire. Pieris brassicae (L.). Common. P. rapae (L.). Very common. P. napi (L.). Very common. Anthocharis carda- mines (L.). Common. LYCAENIDAE. Lycaena_ phlaeas' (L.). Common. Polyommatus icarus (Rottemburg). A strong colony at Hilton nature reserve. NYMPHALIDAE. Vanessa atalanta (L.). Scarce most years; not recorded in 1974. V. cardui (L.). Rare. 15.viii.76 (2). Aglais urticae (L.). Very common. Inachis io (L.). Several seen most years. SATYRIDAE. Lasiommata megera (L.). Common. Maniola jurtina (L.). Abundant. LOZOPERA BEATRICELLA WALSINGHAM IN DERBYSHIRE AND YORKSHIRE IN 1976. —I was very interested in the letter con- cerning Lozepera beatricella Wals., in Vol. 89, No. 3 of The Entomologist’s Record, for this species also turned up during 1976, for the first time so far as I am aware, in the counties of Derybshire and Yorkshire. A specimen was taken in a Rothamsted light-trap at Matlock, Derbyshire, on the 27th June, and the Yorkshire specimen was taken at a light-trap operated by Mr. H. E. Beaumont at West Melton, near Rotherham. Both of these specimens have been examined by Dr. J. D. Bradley who has confirmed their identity. It seems strange that such an attractive little moth should have escaped the attention of local entomologists in previous years and I suspect that this species may be a newcomer to the region. Also taken in the Matlock trap on the 25th August, was a single specimen of Agriphila latistria latistria Haw. This species was discovered for the first time in Derbyshire during 1975 at Shipley Park, near Heanor, where it is reasonably well established to judge from the numbers attracted to light in both 1975 and 1976. A number of colonies of Stenoptilia saxifragae Fletcher are now known to occur in Derbyshire. Two sites exist in gardens at Matlock, another in a garden at Starkholmes, near Matlock, and a colony in my own garden which was estab- lished in 1972 by introducing specimens from the first local colony discovered at Sheffield in 1971.—F. Harrison, 24 Church Street, Holloway, nr. Matlock, Derbyshire. 8 ee le ow ae meee se PLATE XVII f ‘u ‘ds 14jo]]OU “Pp JO sWeS 9Y} (Z[-6) *U “ds 1uOj;diuDG “Pp jo oules 94} (Q-¢) *"U ‘opisiopun 2 (Z) ‘ ‘ds 1uvjdvy ‘PY jo opisiopun & (p) ‘opissoddn opisioddn 2 ([) ‘saplaoj pf MoU 9UIOS — ‘Z]-T & (£) ‘S3Iy 209 Further Notes on Species of the Genus Aloeides (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) No. 2 By G. E. Tite! and C. G. C. Dickson, M.Sc.’ A continuation of the paper (Tite and Dickson, 1976) has been rendered necessary by the good field work of Mr. I. Bampton and Dr. J. Kaplan. Full acknowledgments are made to them, and to Mr. W. H. Henning, his sons Stephen and Graham, and to the late K. M. Pennington. These gentlemen have not only lent specimens from their collec- tions for study, but have most generously allowed the authors to retain the types and such paratypes as they deemed desirable, to be presented to the Hope Department of Entomology, University Museum, Oxford. | Aloeides bamptoni sp. n. Pl. XVII, Figs. 5-8 Zeritis simplex Trimen, 1893: 136, partim. As pointed out (Tite and Dickson, 1968: 377-378), Trimen’s four syntypes of Z. simplex did show considerable differences, but at that time, the lack of other specimens did preclude specific separation; although, it was then deemed necessary to fix the larger narrow bordered insect from Damaraland (Tite and Dickson, 1968, pl. 3, Pls. 45 and 46) as the lectotype. Trimen’s specimen labelled Port Nolloth is now seen to be a distinct species, exhibiting a general resemblance to Z. simplex, but being of smaller size, and the underside of the hindwing being of a duller more sandy hue. In the following description, comparisons are with that species unless otherwise stated. Mr. Bampton knows the area well, and has taken both this and the next species in numbers; he says that he has never found bamptoni at Port Nolloth, and that he considers the name to have been loosely applied to cover the general area, both in this case and in that of the similarly labelled specimens collected by the late Mr. Pennington. The precise locality was probably some miles inland from Port Nolloth and at a higher altitude. In a country where place-names are few and far between, it is inevitable that such inaccuracies will arise, unless exact distances from the nearest named point are included on labels, as Mr. Bampton has done with the material under consideration. The species is named with pleasure in recogni- tion of the fine field work and helpful criticism of Mr. Ivan Bampton. Length of forewing: ¢ 13-15 mm.; 2 14-16 mm. Upperside 6. The forewing ground colour is deeper tawny-orange, with only faint indication of the underside spotting showing through. Its blackish margins are wider and darker, being approximately 1 mm. in width at vein 3 and widening to over 3 mm. at the apex. The apical patch is narrow and tapers to about half the length of the costa, 196 Dundale Road, Tring, Herts., HP23 5BZ. 2 Blencathra, Cambridge Avenue, St. Michael’s Estate, Cape Town, 8001. 210 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD =_15/ VII-VIII/77 the lower half of which is covered with pale brownish scales. The hindwing is of the same colour as the forewing. Its dark margin is slightly wider than that of A. simplex but is narrower than that of the forewing, being in most examples slightly widened at the apex; in only a few individuals, is this widening definite enough to indicate an apical patch. The fringes are chequered black and greyish-white. Underside ¢. The forewing is deep orange of a rather brickish tint; its margins are dingy brown, and rather wider. There is a definite black wedge shaped mark below the base of the median vein. All the black spots are small even in proportion to the size of the insect; those in the cell consist of a point of white ringed with black, the discoidal spot being similar but bipupilled. The median series are usually tiny, and in many individuals =xhibit a tendency to obsoles- cence; there are no spots in area 1. Similarly, the submarginal series are small; those in areas 1 to 4 are usually clearly defined, but those in areas 5 to 7 are indistinguishable in the dusky apical area; they are not margined with white as in simplex. The marginal dots are present, but very obscure. In colour, the hindwing is dingy fuscous; its pattern of spotting is similar to that of simplex, but is so faintly marked as to be scarcely discernible in most examples. The fringes are not obviously chequered. The female—apart from the usual difference in wing shape—is similar to the male. Holotype ¢. CAPE PROVINCE: 22 km. NNE of Steinkopf, 29.xi1.1974 WU. Bampton) Gin U.M. Oxford). Paratypes. CAPE PROVINCE: 22 km. NNE of Stein- kopf, 9.xi.1974; Ud. Bampton) 1 2 (Allotype in U.M. Oxford); Port Nolloth (sic), 26.1x.1967 (K. M. Pennington) 1 ¢, 1 $; Steinkopf, 16.ix.1967 (K. M. Pennington) (1 4, in U.M. Oxford); 22 km. NNE of Steinkopf, 29.xi.1974 WU. Bampton) 2 $e. V2 - (same. data, 4-x0.1974; 1°, 1 22257mils. or Steinkopf, 22.x.1974, 1 ¢; Steinkopf, 22.x.1974 WU. Bampton) 136; Springbok, 21.x.1974 UV. Bampton) 2 66,1 2;27km.N. of Springbok, 30.xi.1974 UW. Bampton) 4 22; 17 mls. N. of Springbok, 21.x.1974 WU. Bampton) 1 8; 40 km. N. of Hon- deklip Bay, 19.xii.1974 WU. Bampton) 2 66; near Kamaggas, 19.xii.1974 UW. Bampton) 1 &. (All in Henning Coll.) Aloeides nollothi sp. n. Pl. XVII, figs. 9-12 Very similar to the preceding species, this insect differs mainly in possessing a more acute apex to the forewing in the male, and a more definitely defined pattern on the more greyish underside of the hindwing in both sexes. Comparisons are made with A. bamptoni in the following description. It is a coastal insect, occurring in low lying sandy areas, whereas — bamptoni is found in more inland rocky places. The species is named after Captain M. S. Nolloth of the Royal Navy, who surveyed the west coast of southern Africa in H.M.S. Frolic in the year 1853, and from whom Port Nolloth takes its name. a ee FURTHER NOTES ON SPECIES OF THE GENUS ALOEIDES 211 Length of forewing: ¢ 11-15 mm., 2 14-16.5 mm. Upperside ¢. All wings are brighter tawny-orange, exhibiting a strong tendency for the underside pattern to show through. On the forewing, the somewhat wider distal band is more noticeably scalloped along its inner edge; this band grows wider as it approaches the apex where it forms a trian- gular apical patch, which extends to over half the length of the costa. The hindwing only differs in the greater development of the apical patch. On all wings, the fringes are more obviously chequered black and white. Underside ¢. On the forewing the colour is deep tawny- orange. All the spots are larger and more prominent; those in the cell and the bipupilled discoidal spot are more heavily ringed with black; those of the median series are well defined, and in some individuals are accompanied by two spots in area 1 which are set well in towards the base; there is often an additional spot set basad again just below the origin of vein 2. The spots of the marginal series are larger than those of bamptoni, those in areas 5-7 being more obvious on the lighter ground. The hindwing is grey-fuscous; the dark ringed pale grey-brown spots are more obvious, those of the marginal series often exhibiting a bright yellowish tinge. The marginal dots are barely indicated. The fringes on all wings are chequered fuscous and white. Apart from the normal difference in wing-shape, the female does not differ from the male. Holotype ¢. CAPE PROVINCE: McDougall’s Bay (near Port Nolloth) 1.x1i.1974 (. Bampton) (in U.M. Oxford). Paratypes.5 CAPE PROVINCE: McDougall’s Bay, 18.x11.1974 U. Bampton) 1 2 (Gin U.M. Oxford); McDougall’s Bay, 1-19.x11.1974 WU. Bampton) 2 6%, 7 22; Hondeklip Bay, 6-19.xii1974 (1. Bampton) 20 24,7 22; 18 km. E. of Honde- wap say, f5.%11-1974' . “Bampton) > $6, 6 22: (all “in Henning Coll.). Port Nolloth, 26-28.1x.1975 (Dr. J. Kaplan) 1 ¢, 8 22; Hondeklip Bay, 24.ix.1975 (Dr. J. Kaplan) 1 4, 8 22; Gn Kaplan Coll.). Port Nolloth, 26.1x.1967 (kK. M. Pennington) 1 6 (in U.M. Oxford). Aloeides kaplani sp. n. Pl. XVII, figs. 1-4 This species was discovered flying at Vredehoek, on the Swaarweerberg on the farm of Mr. Esterhuyse at Sutherland in the Roggeveld Mountains area at an elevation of 5,100 feet by Dr. J. Kaplan. It is named in recognition of this, and of Dr. Kaplan’s many other contributions to the study of South African butterflies. In general appearance and size, it is very similar to Aloeides pallida grandis (Tite and Dickson, 1968: 375) in both sexes, and in the description all comparisons are made with that insect. Length of forewing: ¢ 17-19 mm., 2 18.5-22 mm. Upperside ¢. The general colour is of the same tint of tawny-orange as in grandis; the dingy black distal band is approximately 3 mm. in width, extending in uniform width 212 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD =_15/ VII-VIII/77 from the tornus to vein 4, where it merges with the apical patch; its inner edge is straight. On the costa, the apical patch is produced into a black band which extends to the base of the wing, where it is brightened by a light scattering of long yellowish scales. On the hindwing, the apical patch is less quadrangular than that of grandis, and is inwardly very diffuse, black scales being scattered for some distance into the tawny- orange portion of the wing, especially on or near the veins. The black discoidal spot usually present in grandis is not to be seen in any of the specimens examined. Underside ¢. The forewing is bright tawny-orange, with a wide yellowish area extending along the hind margin. The costa, apex, and distal margin vary in colour from pale earth- brown to crimson in different individuals; all the spots are small, and those of the median series in areas 1 to 3 tend to obsolescence, or are completely absent; the spot above vein 5 is definitely less far removed towards the base than is the case in grandis. The marginal dots are but faintly indicated. The hindwing varies individually from pale earth-brown to dusty crimson; its irregular markings are straw coloured, edged with brown, and are arranged much as in the last named taxon. The marginal dots are not visible. 2. Like the male, but on the forewing upperside the black distal margin is wider, having a width of approximately 5 mm. at vein 2; its inner edge is scalloped in areas 1, 2 and 3. Holotype ¢. CAPE PROVINCE: Sutherland, 9.x.1975 (Dr. J. Kaplan) (in U.M. Oxford). Paratypes. CAPE PROVINCE: data as holotype, 2 ¢¢ (in Kaplan Coll.); as holotype, 21.x.1973, 1 2 (in Kaplan Coll.) and 1 2 (allotype in U.M. Oxford). References Tite, G. E. and Dickson, C. G. C. 1968. The Aloeides thyra Complex (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae). Bull. Br. Mus. nat. Hist. (Ent.), 29 (5): 367-388. Tite, G. E. and Dickson, C. G. C. 1976. Further Notes on Species of ie Hey Aloeides (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae). Ent. Rec., 88: Trimen, R. 1893. On some new or imperfectly-known species of South African Butterflies. Trans. ent. Soc. Lond., 1892: 123-143. AGRIOPIS MARGINARIA FAB. F. FUSCATA MOSLEY. — On 6th April, 1976 I found a specimen of the melanic f. fuscata Mosley of the Dotted Border in my M.V. trap in the garden here. This is the first time I have seen this form in Suffolk, but I found an example in a water butt at R.A.F. Kirkham, Lancashire in 1943. In his note in the Record of June 1976, Baron de Worms mentions a record from Surrey and suggests that it would be of interest to hear of other records from es ce counties. — H. E. CHIPPERFIELD, Walberswick, uffolk. 213 Collecting Lepidoptera in Britain during 1976 By C. G. M. DE Worms, M.A., Ph.D., F.R.E.S.* Though the opening days of 1976 did not produce such a precocious rush of insects as those of 1975, nevertheless the start of January was once more very mild with daily tempera- tures in the low 50’s for the first three weeks of the month after which a cold snap set in lasting almost to its end by which time all the early geometers were well out, especially Phigalia pedaria Fab. and even an occasional Orthosia cruda D. & S. On January 29th I left for Malaysia, only returning just over a month later on February 29th. I apparently missed very little cold weather so that when I got back I found spring almost on the doorstep as the opening of March was quite congenial, bringing out most of the early noctuids about at their normal period. A short-lived cold snap in the second week of the month gave way to very spring-like conditions by the middle period when the sallows were already well in bloom. They were at their height when I travelled to Kent on the 19th, but in spite of fair sunshine little was on the wing either in the Folkestone area or near Rye where I paid a visit to Mr. Michael Tweedie on March 22nd. The final week of March warmed up considerably with the shade temperature rising above 60°F. on the 28th. Its last day spent with Dr. J. Holmes I saw Archiearis parthenias L. flying on Horsell Common. The mild weather continued into the first days of April when the Orthosias were flooding into m.v. light together with a spate of Xylocampa areola L. and Panolis flammea D. & S. which lasted well into May. The second week of April saw me at Norwich for a conference starting on the 9th. Two days later, on a very sunny occasion, I went to stay with Tony Palmer near Saxthorpe. Several insects were attracted to his door light that night, including Earophila badiata D. & S. and Erannis marginaria Fab. My next journey took me to Dorset to stay with my relatives near Blandford for the Easter holiday, which proved one of the best in recent years for good weather. Good Friday, April 16th, was very fine and warm and I went over to see Mr. and Mrs. Hatton at Holt, near Wim- borne. A few Brimstones were flying in my host’s garden the next morning, together with the first Pieris rapae L. With the thermometer in the 60’s I spent the earlier part of the day beating the very luxuriant growth of sloe blossom on Bulbarrow Down in the hope of dislodging larvae of Chloro- clystis chloérata Mab., but without success. So far as I am aware, this species has not been recorded west of Salisbury where I first obtained it in 1944. On April 18th, again in very warm conditions, I made my way further westwards to Beer Common in South Devon to stay with Mr. and Mrs. G. Woollatt who had recently moved back there. En route I called on Mr. N. G. Wykes, near Bridport, where I saw in * Three Oaks, Shores Road, Horsell, Woking, Surrey. 214 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD = _15/ VII-VIII/77 his garden Pieris napi L. and Anthocharis cardamines L. Both these insects were also on the wing at Beer where there was quite an assortment of visitors to Mr. Woollat’s m.v. trap. Besides the commoner Orthosias, there were several Cerastis rubricosa D. & S., X. areola and Orthosia gracilis D. & S. On the 20th I made my way to Surrey via the New Forest which was alive with Brimstones in the bright and warm sun- shine. The next day, April 21st, saw me on the Surrey-Sussex border where the sloe blossom was a remarkable sight. One bank of it yielded several full-fed larvae of C. chloérata Mab. which pupated at once. The last ten days of April were some- what cooler, but most of the early spring butterflies were now well on the wing, though not many were in evidence when I visited Durfold Wood on May Ist. That evening my light-trap attracted on the edge of Chobham Common a female of Saturnia pavonia L. and a fresh Odontosia carmelita Esp. It was a very different scene when I revisited the Chiddingfold area on May 9th with Dr. J. Holmes. An early heat wave had set in on the 6th and the temperature had soared to 82°F. in the shade. All the rides were alive with insects. We recorded no less than twelve species of butterflies. Possibly the most numerous was Leptosia sinapis L. with A. cardamines almost equally plentiful. There were also lots of Pararge egeria L. with a good showing of Clossiana euphrosyne L. Besides the common Whites, other spring butterflies seen included Celas- trina argiolus L. and Pyrgus malvae L. I was again in Dr. Holmes’s company when we went to Noar Hill, near Selborne, on the 19th and were delighted to see a good many Hamearis lucina L. flitting among the short herbage, but little was to be seen in a nearby wood that afternoon, in spite of the warmth. A further visit to the Durfold Wood area on May 22nd, this time in company with Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Greenwood and Mr. Anthony Valletta from Malta, provided quite a galaxy of lepidopterous life. Our overseas guest was delighted to see so many Wood Whites flying in every ride, together with the two Pearl-bordered Fritillaries in fair quantity as well. Hemaris fuciformis L. was also seen as well as a good many Pyrgus malvae L. and Erynnis tages L. We also found a full-fed larva of Griposia aprilina L. in a crevice of oak bark and several larvae of Orthosia miniosa D. & S. also on oak. In spite of continued heat little was on the wing the next day in Alice Holt Forest, or later again in the Chiddingfold area. However, another very warm day greeted Dr. Holmes and myself once more at Noar Hill on May 24th. This time the Rev. Anthony Harbottle had joined us and we were treated to a fine display of the little Duke of Burgundy, which was much more plenti- ful than on our previous visit. Orange-tips were in abundance with plenty of Polyommatus icarus Rott. and C. euphrosyne L. in most of the clearings in a neighbouring wood. On the 29th I travelled to the New Forest to spend the spring holiday week-end with Rear-Admiral David Torlesse. Again Alice Holt Forest yielded little of note when I spent COLLECTING LEPIDOPTERA IN BRITAIN DURING 1976 21S an hour there en route, nor was there much moving in the vicinity of Brockenhurst by day in spite of fine conditions. However, my host’s m.v. trap had quite an assortment of visitors on the subsequent couple of nights providing some 40 species, which included Sphinx ligustri L., Laothoé populi L., Deilephila elpenor L., Stauropus fagi L., Pterostoma palpina Clerck, Notodonta trepida Esp., Pheosia gnoma Fab., Drymonia dodonaea D. & S., Cycnia mendica Clerck, Dasy- chira pudibunda L., Hippocrita jacobaeae L., also the noctuids Apatele psi L., A. rumicis L., Ceramica pisi L., Caradrina ambigua D. & S., Diarsia rubi View., D. mendica Fab., Apamea crenata Hufn., and Unca tripartita Hufn. Among the geo- meters were Thera obeliscata Hiibn., Dysstroma truncata Hufn., Eupithecia pulchellata Stephens, E. exiguata Hubn., E. nanata Hiibn., Gonodontis bidentata Clerck, Campaea mar- garitata L. and Pachys betularia L. I was back in Surrey the last day of May which ended on a very warm note with June following suit for its opening week. I was away in Provence in the south of France from June 3rd to 11th. On my return the thermometer was well into the 70’s, with a rise of 83°F. on the 14th when I was again in the Durfold woods where Wood Whites were still in abundance with a number of C. selene. My sojourn in Surrey was short- lived as on June 18th I left on another long distance trip, this time to Orkney. Mr. and Mrs. Ian Lorimer had once more kindly invited me to sample the lepidoptera at a new time of year since my two previous visits had been in August 1969 and the same month in 1971. I reached Kirkwall by air via Aberdeen in the afternoon and we were soon at my hosts’ residence at Orphir overlooking Scapa Flow where I had had such good collecting in the previous years. The next morning of the 19th dawned quite sunny when my host and I went over to the neighbourhood of Stromness where we found Pieris napi L. flying in plenty with the females very smoky on the upperside. A few Large Whites were also on the wing. That afternoon, walking over heather near Orphir, we flushed a number of Eupithecia satyrata Hiibn., some approximating to f. curzoni Tutt. In the evening we ran an m.v. light on the moors at Hobbister, but the night proved cold. The only interesting visitor was a male Dyscia fagaria Thunb., a very northerly outpost for this fine geometer. The following day saw us at the Chair of Lyde, a short pass running west to east over the centre of the mainland. It had proved very fruitful on my earlier visits and this time provided a lot more P. napi. It was quite warm on June 21st when we went to the moss at Yesnaby, but it did not provide any new species until just after I had left Orkney when it was alive with Coenonympha tullia Mull. On June 22nd we thought we would try the islands to the south which are reached by a large causeway built in the War. We reached Ronaldsay in the late afternoon and penetrated Hoxa Moss with a lot of cotton grass on it. It was not long before my host netted a small Pug skimming fast over the damp herbarge and when we examined it closely in 216 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD = _15/ VII-VIII/77 a box, it was undoubtedly Eupithecia pygmaeata Hiibn., never before recorded so far north in the British Isles. A wet morning greeted us on June 23rd, but it cleared later when we once more visited the Chair of Lyde, where we saw Saturnia pavonia L. flying with many P. napi. We found E. satyrata flying freely later on Glyn Moss, with a few Gymnoscelis pumilata Hiibn. in a very bright form. Our last afternoon on the 24th was once more spent at Hoxa marsh where we netted a few more E. pygmaeata at their customary time of flight about 5 p.m. There were also a few Perizoma albulata D. & S., Epirrhoé alternata Mull. and Xanthorhoé montanata D. & S. During the week Ian Lorimer had been running his m.v. trap nightly at his house, Scorradale, with quite interesting results. Among 24 species of the macros and 172 individuals seen on the six nights, the greatest surprise came on June 19th when the first Spilosoma lubricipeda L. (White Ermine) seen on Orkney appeared with a few more on subsequent nights. Among the noctuids, by far the commonest was Hada nana Hufn. in many forms. There was also quite a visitation of Apamea crenata Hufn., together with several Hadena bicruris Hufn., H. cucubali D. & S., Diarsia florida Schmidt, Eumichtis adusta Esp., Caradrina clavipalpis Scop., also Lycophotia varia Vill., Unca tripartita Hufn., Plusia pulchrina Haworth, P. chrysitis L. and P. gamma L. By far the most numerous geo- meter was Xanthorhoé montanata L. in a variety of forms, as well as Perizoma alchemillata L., P. albulata D. & S. and some dark Xanthorhoé fluctuata L. We also saw two Swifts, females of Hepialus humuli L. and H. velleda Hiibn. The bird life also much engaged our attention, what with a galaxy of sea birds, skuas, many young curlews, nesting redshanks, fulmers, etc. The sight of the grand blue-grey male of the Hen Harrier ‘stooping’ on occasion just in front of Scorradale, was most exciting. I flew south again on the afternoon of June 25th. On reaching Heathrow I was met by a rush of hot air which reminded me of landing earlier in the year at Kuala Lumpur, for the current London temperature was 92°F. in the shade. It was the start of the phenomenal heat wave which lasted at least two weeks and was possibly the longest in continuity of the century. It brought out insects several weeks ahead of normal and produced huge catches of moths at m.v. light, measured often in thousands a night. One June 26th the thermometer stood at 96°F. and remained at this tropical height for several days running. The next day Plebeius argus L. was swarming on the edge of Chobham Common. In the afternoon I joined Mr. J. Messenger in King’s Park Wood, near Chiddingfold, where Argynnis paphia L. was already well on the wing with many Limenitis camilla L., a prelude to better things to come. June ended on a very warm note with 87°F. in the shade on the 30th. In scorching conditions with the temperature in the high 80’s, I joined Dr. John Holmes en July Ist in a part of Alice Holt Forest not often frequented. One of the more southern COLLECTING LEPIDOPTERA IN BRITAIN DURING 1976 DAG enclosures was our venue where Argynnis paphia was not yet reaching its climax at this early date. Many pairs were to be seen flying in cop. White Admirals were also in plenty and we saw one Apatura iris L. flit past us. Thymelicus sylvestris Poda was swarming, while Meadow Browns were also in great numbers. About midday we went on to another wood a few miles further south on the edge of Woolmer Forest, where during our picnic lunch under a large shady oak we were treated to a fine display of Purple Emperors sailing high up and sometimes diving down almost touching our shoulders. This fine insect had already been on the wing for at least a week, possibly a record early date for its appearance. Here again the White Admirals were in abundance and we also saw Argynnis aglaia L., Polygonia c-album L. and A glais urticae L. The tropical weather went on unabated and it was 90°F. in the shade when the Rev. Anthony Harbottle picked me up on the afternoon of July 4th. We were soon speeding up the M1 and M6 reaching Heaves Hotel just south of Kendal by 6 p.m. That evening we ran a Heath light among yew trees near Lindale where I had taken Perizoma taeniata Stephens in the 1930’s but, though none of this small geometer was forthcoming, quite a few other species were attracted, including many Nudaria mundana L., also Polia nebulosa Hufn., Alcis repandata L.., Cidaria fulvata Forst., Apeira syringaria L. and Hepialus humuli L. females. The next morning back in the hotel garden we found a huge concourse in our m.v. static trap, quite 600 individuals, the most noteworthy of which was a fresh example of Plusia gracilis Lempke. Again N. mundana was in plenty, together with Drepana binaria Hufn., Plusia iota L., and many geometers, especially Sterrha aversata L., Campaea margaritata L. and Alcis repandata L. There was also a host of Agrotis exclamationis L. and A. clavis Hufn. We were soon on the road again on July 5th under clear skies and a scorching sun. Passing through Windermere we travelled on past Thirlmere to Keswick, then south past Derwentwater to the famous Honister Pass where we parked our car on the summit. Then we undertook the tedious climb up the fairly new rough gravel road to the quarry on the plateau, where we soon found Frebia epiphron Knoch flying vigorously but well past its best at this early date. After descending for lunch at Rosthwaite, we motored south again to Arnside Knott arriving about 4 p.m. to find the fine bright form of Argynnis adippe L. just starting to appear with some late Clossiana selene L. and early Eumenis semele L. The following morning we set out northwards, via Carlisle and the Lowlands. After a break at Callander for lunch, we went on via Killin and along the north shore of Loch Tay, then up the steep road to the escarpment to the foot of Ben Lawers where we once more found Erebia epiphron on the wing in better condition than the Lake District form. But even so, some were already worn and they were far from easy to catch in the strong breeze. We saw a single late Hemaris tityus L. and a Epirrhoé tristata L. in poor condition. Descending again to 218 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD =_15/ VII-VIII/77 Loch Tay, we proceeded via Tummel Bridge to the Trinafour- Struan road where we halted near a patch of rockrose. To our surprise it was not long before Aricia artaxerxes Fab. appeared with several fine large Polyommatus icarus Rott. We then made our way via Dalwhinnie and Kingussie to the Lynwilg Hotel, just south of Aviemore. This had been our haven also in April 1975. The sky had been cloudless all day and the heat intense for these northerly parts. Our m.v. trap plugged in at the hotel did not attract very much, though a few mixed species, including Dasychira fascelina L., Polia tincta Brahm, Apamea crenata Hufn., Eumichtis adusta Hibn. and Campaea margaritata L. The next morning at just over 80°F. in the shade we set out for the summit of the Drumnoichter Pass where we had briefly halted the previous afternoon. My companion had taken a couple of Coeno- nympha tullia Mill. on the large moss, and we found both sexes flying in plenty and very fresh. A notable capture was a female Parasemia plantaginis L. from which Mr. Harbottle obtained a batch of ova. These soon hatched and he bred out a series in the autumn. The afternoon we spent on Granish Moor where it was too hot for much to fly, though we saw C. selene and a few P. icarus. Later we walked up the moun- tain road at Kinrara. The lower slopes produced several Gnophos myrtillata Thunb. which we flushed from a heather bank, also a Plusia interrogationis L. on the wing. Early on July 8th we turned south again under very warm conditions. We stopped once more at the top of the Drumnoichter Pass where C. tullia was really abundant. Our next halt was the start of the Struan road where on a grassy bank was growing plenty of Helianthemum. Soon afterwards a number of A. artaxerxes were to be seen flitting over it and also on a grassy patch on the opposite side of the road. To our surprise a couple of E. epiphron appeared at this comparatively low altitude, possibly blown from higher ground. We saw too a solitary female C. selene and several fine P. icarus. Travelling south that afternoon via Aberfeldy and Crieff then on to the Lowlands dual track highway to Gretna where we halted for a meal, we once more made Heaves Hotel by 9 p.m. However, after the heat in the Highlands it was refresh- ing to meet cooler air on the morning of July 9th when we revisited Arnside Knott. It was just sunny enough for insects to fly. On this occasion A. adippe was in fair plenty in both sexes and for the most part in very good order. The only other species of note was the local form of the Brown Argus. The weather broke in the afternoon and we had to negotiate heavy rainstorms in the Midlands before reaching Surrey by 8 p.m. after what had proved a most rewarding few days in the northern regions. The heat wave was still in full swing when I accompanied Mr. J. Messenger to the Durfold area on July 11th. A few days before he had seen a number of Purple Emperors there and was almost certain they included the melanic form ab. iole, COLLECTING LEPIDOPTERA IN BRITAIN DURING 1976 219 but they were not so forthcoming on this occasion and we only caught sight of one iris sailing high about midday. How- ever, the quantity of Argynnis paphia was quite phenomenal. We counted as many as a dozen on a single thistle head all jostling for position and mostly females. The second brood of Wood Whites was already on the wing. The afternoon was spent in another part of this wooded region where there is a shaded valley. Here a lot of White Admirals were settled on bramble with a few A. aglaia and Thecla quercus L. which was very plentiful generally. In all, we counted up to no less than 21 species of butterfly seen that day which aiso included Brimstones, Graylings, Gatekeepers, Ringlets and Commas. On the morning of July 13th Dr. J. Holmes and I once more joined forces in Alice Holt Forest, but after the 80’s of the previous week it was much cooler and dull so that we saw little moving that morning. The afternoon I went over to Weston Common, near Odiham, only to see a number of Melanargia galatea L. already past their best. Many Maniola tithonus were flying but not the galaxy of insects Dr. Holmes had seen there a few days previously, including Purple Emperors and all the usual woodland butterflies. On the afternoon of July 15th I went by train to Thorpe- le-Soken in Essex to revisit Mr. Ben Fisher. It was a very sultry night when we placed our m.v. light on a sea wall near Beaumont-cum-Moze. Insects soon came flocking in and by just after midnight we had recorded 66 species of the macros. A feature was the simultaneous arrival on the sheet of females of both species of Lackey (Malacosoma castrensis L. and M. neustria L.). Though we only saw one Sphingid, Deilephila elpenor L., there was plenty else to keep us busy. A late arrival was Pterostoma palpina L. with a lot of Philudoria potatoria L. Among the early visitors were Phragmatobia fuliginosa L., Eilema complana L., E. lurideola Zinck. and Drepana binaria Hufn. The most interesting noctuids included Euxoa nigricans L., Eremobia ochroleuca D. & S., Procus furuncula D. & S., Leucania straminea Treits., Coenobia rufa Haworth, Areno- stola phragmitidis Hiibn., Nonagria dissoluta Treits., Cerap- teryx graminis L. and Plusia iota L. Among the geometers were an Eupithecia succenturiata L., with E. centaureata D. & S., Abraxas grossulariata L., Plemyria bicolorata Hufn., Deuteronomos erosaria D. & S., Crocallis elinguaria L. and Aspitates ochrearia Rossi. There was quite a concourse of insects in my host’s static trap run at his house. Species which we had not seen earlier included a good many Arctia caja L., Leucania conigera D. & S., Sterrha biselata Hufn. and Selenia bilunaria L. Later that night a heavy thunderstorm broke with torrential rain, the first for several weeks, which helped to bring out more lepidoptera earlier than usual. But the thermometer rose once more to above 80°F. when I revisited Alice Holt Forest on the morning of July 18th, but no Purple Emperors were apparent, though several had been seen at an earlier hour that day, some quite low down. A. paphia was still much in evidence. I went on to the 220 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD 15/VII-VIII/77 Witley area and during the afternoon accompanied Mr. Messenger to Ebernoe, near Petworth, where we again saw many A. paphia also L. sinapis in Durfold Wood. I flew to Catalonia in Northern Spain on July 20th. On my return ten days later on the 30th, conditions were a good deal cooler, especially when Mr. Messenger joined me on Horsell Common the last day of the month. Several Eumenis semele were flying with P. icarus and a single female Celastrina argiolus L. was seen and a very melanic Ematura atomaria L. taken by my companion. The temperature once more crept back into the 70’s the first week of August, but little came to a Heath light on the borders of Chobham Common on the Ist. The following afternoon I met Mr. R. Bretherton on Pewley Down, near Guildford, where Lysandra coridon Poda was already getting worn, having been on the wing there since late June, possibly a record early date for its appearance. The second brood of P. icarus was well out, and I went over to King’s Park Wood on the 4th when there was still a good concourse, mainly L. sinapis. Many G. rhamni were flying, with a few late A. paphia and a host of M. tithonus. The next afternoon in intense heat I revisited White Down, near Gom- shall. Here Hesperia comma L. was flying in plenty with L. coridon and P. napi. (to be continued) Notes and Observations EVIDENCE CONCERNING THE DEATH OF ELEAZAR ALBIN. — Previously nothing has been known of the birth and death dates of Eleazar Albin, who, in addition to his contributions to other areas of British natural history, was the author of the first really extensive colour-plate work on English entomology, A Natural History of English Insects (London, 1720 and subse- quent editions). In his discussion of Albin in A Bibliography of British Lepidoptera, 1608-1799 (London, 1960), A. A. Lisney was only able to give the naturalist’s dates as “fl. 1713-1759”’. More information about Eleazar Albin was provided by my “English Entomological Methods in the Seventeenth and Eighteenth Centuries, I: to 1720’, Entomologist’s Rec. J. Var., 78 (1966), 143-151; W. S. Bristowe’s “‘“The Life and Work of a Great English Naturalist, Joseph Dandridge, 1664-1746’, Entomologist’s Gazette, 18 (1967), 73-89; and Dr. Bristowe’s ““More about Joseph Dandridge and his Friends James Petiver and Eleazar Albin’, Entomologist’s Gazette, 18 (1967), 197-201. It now appears that Albin was born before 1690, and a notice in the London Daily Advertiser for 22nd February, 1741/2, provides an approximate date of death which is surprisingly earlier than previous estimates: NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS 2192) “This Day is publish’d, Bibliotheca Curiosa: or, A Cata- logue of scarce and uncommon Books, in most Languages and Faculties: Being the Collection of Mr. ELEAZER ALBIN, (the curious Drawer of Birds, Insects, &c.) lately deceased, and of two private Gentlemen gone abroad. Which will begin selling this Day, at a most reasonable Rate, the lowest Price being fix’d to each Book in the Catalogue, and will continue selling till all are sold, By JOHN ROBINSON, At his Shop in Southam pton-Street, Covent-Garden; Where Catalogues are given gratis; likewise at Mount’s Coffee-House, Grosvenor- Street; at Mr. Brindley’s, Bookseller, in New Bond-Street; at Mr. Davis’s, Bookseller, the Corner of Sackville-Street, Picca- dilly; at the Smyrna Coffee-House, Pall-Mall; at the Exchequer Coffee-House, Westminster-Hall; at Brown’s Coffee-House, Mitre-Court, Fleet-Street; at Mr. Withers’s, Bookseller, near Temple-Bar; at Mr. Osborn’s, Bookseller, in Pater-noster-Row; and at Mrs. Nutt’s, at the Royal Exchange.”’ Thus Eleazar Albin was “‘lately deceased’’ in February, 1741/2 (1742 new style), and perhaps a further search in con- temporary records will establish a more precise date. I have not yet located a copy of the sale catalogue; it should certainly be of great interest. — Dr. RONALD S. WILKINSON, The Library of Congress, Washington, D.C. 20540; The American Museum of Natural History, New York, New York 10024. GEOMYZA BREVISETA CZ. AND G. VENUSTA Me. (DIPT.: OPOMYZIDAE) IN WEST KENT, THE LATTER CONFIRMED AS BritTisH. — When in 1967 (Ent. mon. Mag., 103:172) I recorded the former of these species from Oxon., there were only a few British specimens known from single localities in Suffolk, Hants., and Somerset. Recently, however, J. W. Ismay (1974, ibid., 110: 103) has recorded it from Egham, Surrey (in numbers), East Kent, and Dorset, and from four localities in Norfolk. I can now report that G. breviseta occurs in the London suburbs. Between 16.vi and 5.vii.72 I took four of these flies, on different days, about the base of a poplar stump and on the grass around it in a lane beyond the end of my. former garden at Blackheath; another while grubbing for beetles, etc., on short turf in a heathy spot at Charlton (30.iv.74); and finally one at rest on a young willow sapling in a park in the same area (14.vil.76). The fact that the species has in general to be sought at the roots of grasses, thus seldom finding its way into the dipterist’s net, doubtless accounts for its apparent rarity. Of still more interest is the capture of a 2 Geomyza venusta Mg. by general sweeping on ‘“‘Darwin’s Bank’? —a chalky hillside at Downe, West Kent—on 8th July, 1973. ~ Though Collin (1945, Ent. Rec., 57: 15) had not seen a British specimen, he included it in his key to our species as one which had been misrecorded but which could well occur here, and 222 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD =_15/ VII-VITI/77 I have seen no further reference to it. I feel confident that my specimen is correctly determined, since it runs straight to venusta in the key and cannot be made to fit any other species included. I thank my friend Mr. J. M. Chalmers-Hunt for the opportunity of collecting at the above attractive spot. — A. A. ALLEN. THE HAzarps OF Motu HuntInc. — It was a cool, decep- tively clear night on the 22nd of February when Mr. Parsons and I converged upon Abbot’s Wood for one of the most bizarre collecting trips in my experience. In the fading light of that February evening we assembled two actinic traps on the outskirts of the wood. One was sited in an exposed position, and the other was afforded a little shelter by some denuded bushes. The lights had just been switched on when a shower of rain persuaded us to retire hurriedly beneath a hedge. A few minutes later the rain ceased and we began the evening by taking numerous Theria rupica- praria D. & S. and countless examples of Erannis marginaria Fabr. showing marked variation. After a good collecting session in the wood, we emerged and noticed several car headlamps in the vicinity of our traps. Not wishing to invite the attention of the public at large, we decided to rescue them. As we neared the site of all the activity we were confronted by a nervous young constable and three members of the farming fraternity. He was under the mistaken impression that we were poaching, and was sadly disappointed when examination of our suspiciously bulging bags revealed sundry mothing impedimentia and the writer’s vacuum flask. It later transpired that our lights had been reported to the police station as a “Martian Invasion”’ by a score of dis- traught motorists! The constable had been on the point of calling for reinforcements when we appeared and concluded that chapter of local history. — Mark HapDLey, 7 Beverington Close, Eastbourne, Sussex. SCYTHRIS FLETCHERELLA MEYRICK IN KENT. — On the 14th May, 1977 Mr. Chalmers-Hunt and I visited a well-known locality on the downs in Kent and found larvae of the seldom recorded Scythris fletcherella. I first found the larvae at the same locality in 1973 and have done so on several occasions since, e.g. 1.v.76 and 17.v.76. The species is probably more widespread than records suggest but the larval habits are not well-known. The larva spins a loose web on Helianthemum nummularium and this web eventually extends over the lower leaves of several shoots. A tube is formed down into the moss and debris and the larva can withdraw rapidly into the tube when disturbed. The larva eats the upper surface of the leaves which gives the eaten leaves a whitish appearance. Foodplant growing over moss is preferred. — J. ROcHE, 16 Frimley Court, Sidcup Hill, Sidcup, Kent. PLATE XVIII H. C. Huggins 225 OBITUARY HENRY CHARLES HUGGINS, F.R.ES. 1891-1977 It is with deep regret that we have to record the passing of Henry Huggins, one of the foremost British lepidopterists of the twentieth century, who died at Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex on 14th April, 1977 in his 86th year. H. C. Huggins was born at Gravesend, Kent, on 17th May, 1891, the elder son of Henry Huggins, J.P., and began collecting at the age of eight with a Mimas tiliae L. larva which the following year, 1899, produced a one-spot ab. In 1900, he met the Rev. C. R. N. Burrows who assisted and coached him in the macros; and in 1910, B. A. Bower, who grounded him in the micros. He was alsc helped in his youth by the celebrated A. B. Farn (a second cousin of his grand- mother, Mrs. Louisa Huggins née Farn). For the first forty years or so, much of his collecting was done in Kent while residing at Gravesend and later at Sittingbourne, Margate and Faversham, and in 1901 he took the third British specimen of Conopia anthraciniformis Esp. (=andrenaeformis Las- peyres), mentioned in Tutt’s Practical Hints. For a time he collected British land and freshwater mollusca, publishing a paper on “The Limnaeae of the Alpine Lakes of the Glengarriff District, West Cork” in the Irish Naturalist for 1918, and in which he suppressed two so-called species, L. involuta Thomp. and L. praetenuis Bowell. He always regarded this early paper as his best work, and although it was adversely criticised at the time, in the 1930’s A. E. Boycott, F.R.S. went over the results again, checking by breeding and dissection, and entirely endorsed them. He began this molluscan work in 1914, in which year he also took the first Irish example of Eupithecia pulchellata ab. hebudium Sheldon. Ireland got a grip on him which was never relaxed and except during the “troubles”? and Second World War he made almost annual visits there (36 in all), the last in 1973 in the company of the writer. After 1922, Huggins concentrated on micros with some success but much difficulty owing to the absence at that time of qualified people at the B.M. to identify them. However, he did add Cydia conicolana Heylaerts to the British list. He was also the first to establish the specific identity of Eucosma heringiana Jackh, though Meyrick unfortunately identified this as ab. rubescana Const., so H. described it specifically as such and the identification being incorrect it was redescribed 15 years later as heringiana. Meyrick, moreover, misidentified two Cydia prunivorana Rag. that H. took at Sittingbourne in 1922 as stunted Enarmonia formosana Scop. (=woeberiana D. & S.), thereby postponing its introduction to the British list for over 40 years. In 1924, the B.M. pronounced his specimens of Leioptilus _ bowesi Whalley as “‘the well-known Kentish form of osteo- dactylus Z.’’ H. said this caused his one published bloomer, 224 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD ~=_15/ VII-VIII/77 as he supplied Dr. Beirne with the description of the larva of bowesi, which he had bred, as that of osteodactylus. Harry Huggins was a most interesting and entertaining companion with a wide knowledge and an incredible fund of anecdote, much of it entomological reaching back to the early 1900’s. Possessed of a phenomenal memory he could recall details of past exploits and encounters with many entomologists long since dead, among them J. W. Tutt, Charles Fenn, Richard South, Sir John Fryer, the Rev. Metcalfe, J. W. Corder and W. G. Sheldon to mention but a few of those with whom he was acquainted or who were his friends. He was also an excellent correspondent, and to receive one of his letters so full of information and that characteristic racy humour of his was enjoyable indeed. An inveterate reader and prolific writer, he contributed hundreds of notes to this magazine (including the series ‘‘Notes on the Microlepidoptera’’) and to the Entomologist, many of them on new subspecies and aberrations, especially those from Ireland noted over the past 60 years. He was also one of the authors of the recently published A Guide to the Butterflies and Larger Moths of Essex. He was a member of the editorial panel of the Entomologist’s Record from 1962 until his death; he joined the (then) South London Entomological and Natural History Society in 1934; and was elected F.R.E.S. in 1936. Except for the Tineoidea (which group he did not collect owing to a physical disability in his hands which prevented him from handling such small insects), I believe his was the most complete private collection of British lepidoptera in existence.! Fortunately the whole of this splendid collection has been presented to the British Museum (Nat. Hist.). In 1918, he married Ethel Ada Grist of Erith, who until her death in 1963 was a great help in his collecting, and caught the first Cryphia muralis ab. nigra Huggins and Euphyia bilineata ab. ethelae Huggins. They had one son, who like his father, became a manager of a branch of Westminster Bank, and to whom we offer our sincerest sympathy. — J.M.C.-H. 1 Among the highlights of his collection are specimens of Arctornis l-nigrum O. F. Miller, Leucodonta bicoloria D. & S., Oxyptilus pilosellae Z., Gibberifera simplana F.v.R.; also, series of Costaconvexa polygrammata Bork., Archips betulana WUbn. (decretana Tr.) and Choristoneura lafauryana Ragonot, which three species are probably now only represented in museum collections. AN EARLY APPEARANCE OF ACHERONTIA ATROPOS L. — A specimen of A. atropos came to my light-trap here on the night of April 27th/28th last. Believing the moth to be a female, I kept it alive in a large container supplied with food and suitable vegetation in the hope that it might lay. The moth which was in quite good condition apart from the loss of one of its antennae, survived until the night of May 13th/14th having hardly moved, apparently not fed and certainly not laid any eggs. — J. L. "MESSENGER, Stonehaven, Wormley Hill, Whitley, Surrey. LEPIDOPTERA OF KENT (175) Siona lineata Scopoli : dealbata L. : Black-veined Moth. Native. Chalk downs and pits, open woods on clay, rough grassy fields on Kentish ragstone; [on Brachypodium pinnatum]. ta This strikingly marked moth has declined to the point of extinction in most of its localities in the county. In some, such as at Hollingbourne and Chattenden, the cause of this extinction is not clear, but at others it has been the direct result of man’s interference. The delightful rough flowery grasslands at Goldwell, where the insect flourished until the early 1970’s, are filled with refuse despite efforts to conserve the locality; and the downs at Chilham and Crundale, where this and other good species occurred, have been ploughed. The moth still persists very locally in div. 8 and 11, but nowhere else in Britain to my know- ledge. I have thus purposely withheld details of its survival, since under no circumstances should this species be taken. 3. Faversham (Stainton, Man., 2:63). Blean Woods (Chaney, 1884-87). 6a. Darenth Wood (see First Record). [Chattenden?], took twenty- two in Kent*, May-June 1859 (Allchin, Ent. week. Int., 8: 4). Chatten- den, about 12, June 1863 (Morris, Week. Ent., 3: 286); thirty, June 8th 1889 (Fenn, Diary); formerly common in one portion of Chattenden Roughs and meadow adjoining, but now becoming very scarce (Chaney, 1884-87); near Strood [Chattenden], 1890 (Tyrer, Ent. Rec., 1: 207); about 30 taken by various collectors, June 30th 1891 (Fenn, Diary); 1895 (Battley, Ent. Rec., 7:22) ‘‘Strood 6.vi.98” (1) [Chattenden] (C.-H. coll.); 1899 (James, Ent. Rec., 12: 102); “‘I took two at Chattenden in 1902 and one in 1903, I never heard of any there after that year” (H. C. Huggins); Chattenden, one, June 1906, in Hope Dept. (R. F. Bretherton). 7. Charing, “once abundantly’ (T. Marshall, in Stephens, Haust., 3: 245). [Westwell?] 1861, over 100 taken by A. Russell and H. Foster, June 10th-11th, and over 50 more to June 18th by R. Down and Dowsett (Russell, Ent. week. Int., 10:91). Westwell Downs, abundant (V.C.H., 1908). Hollingbourne, one, 1919, four, 1923 (F. T. Grant); common, last seen 1937, not looked for since (H. C. Huggins) (I have, repeatedly, without seeing it—C.-H.) Soakham Downs (Scott, 1936); not seen since (E. Scott personal communication, iii.1956). Bearsted, one, June 14th 1948 in G. Law coll. (C.-H.). 8. Ashford district*, 1868, Mr. Jeffrey watched the female oviposit on Brachypodium (Newman, Entomologist, 4: 100). Wye, 1894 (Richard- son, Entomologist, 27: 246). ““Wye Downs, June 14th 1894, where they were in great abundance in long grass of downs and spinnies. Flying freely in sunshine”? (S. Wacher MS.); Wye chalkpit, C. A. W. Duffield saw one in 1912, “‘it has been very scarce this year’ (R. A. Jackson, Diary); plentiful 1939, 1953 (C.-H.); a few about May 12th 1960, none seen May 28th 1960 and presumed over (J. Cadbury teste A. L. Good- son). Wye downs, common, June 4th 1950; Brook, common, May 27th 1960 (R. F. Bretherton). ‘‘Locally common from Brabourne to Crundale on the Downs’’ (Scott, 1936). Brook, common, 1934 (A. J. L. Bowes); common, June 27th 1960 (R. F. Bretherton). Crundale, common 1935; Hastingsleigh, not uncommon 1937 (H. C. Huggins). Hastingsleigh, 1954, about 12 in one day (B. K. West). Chilham Downs, very plentiful 1922, 1923, 1924 (H. G. Gomm, Diary); not uncommon annually 1934-37 (C.-H.). Sole Street, 1932 (J. H. B. Lowe). Brook, 1961 (de Worms, Entomologist, 95: 101). [Deal (5); Stanting Downs (5) bred 1891, all in Hope Dept. (R. F. Bretherton). Stanting Downs may have been a locality for lineata as it lies between Canterbury and Wye, but the species has never been recorded from the eastern (coastal) half of this division and I very much doubt if it has ever occurred at Deal. The specimens were probably from Parry of Canterbury. — C.-H.] 11. Near Wateringbury*, very local (V.C.H., 1908). Goldwell Pit, 1955, several (Scott, Bull. Kent. Fld. Cl., 1:10); seen annually since in these disused Kentish ragstone quarries until 1975, in which year I counted 12 there on June 9th, but by 1976 the locality had been obliterated and there was no sign of the insect (C.-H.). Hoads Wood, 6, at m.v. light, June 10th 1966 (B. K. West). 12. Ham Street Woods, June 4th 1950, “one seen arriving at (176) LEPIDOPTERA OF KENT paraffin lamp and caught’ by R. Ellison (R. F. Bretherton). East Ash- ford, June 1957, June 7th 1958, June 3rd 1959, several seen each year, one only May 30th 1960 (M. Singleton and D. Youngs). 13. Tunbridge Wells (J. G. Children, in Stephens, Haust., 3: 245). VARIATION. — The following are in RCK: ab. fasciata Hoffmann (underside ab.), “J. Parry/Kent 1891” (1); ab. “yellow tint”, East Kent, June 1935, H. D. Smart. First Recorp, 1831: Darenth Wood, formerly (Stephens, Haust., 3: 245). Aspitates gilvaria Denis and Schiffermiiller : Straw Belle. Native. Chalk downs and rough grassy places on the chalk, casually elsewhere; on Pastinaca sativa. The occurrence of this species in div. 10 suggests a temporary settlement. Curtis (Br. Ent., 467) called it “The Dover Belle’. 1.. Lee, singly (C. Fenn, in Wool. Surv., 1909). Bexley district*, rare (L. W. Newman, in Wool. Surv., 1909). 6. Paddlesworth (Chaney, 1884-87). Cuxton (Chaney, loc. cit.); 1893, July 6th (abundant), 22nd (Tutt, Ent. Rec., 4:275). Greenhithe, one in moth trap, 1899 (A. B. Farn MS.). Birling, singly, 1901, 1910 (Anquetil teste E. D. Morgan); September 2nd 1910, August 16th 1913 (22 6 @, 6 2 9), August 14th 1914 (17) (F. T. Grant); 1950 (H. C. Huggins). Halling, common (S. F. P. Blyth). Wrotham Down, 1915-16, in P. J. and D. J. A. Buxton coll. (C.-H.); 1923 (F. T. Grant). Shore- ham, a few, July 21st 1912 (Fenn, Diary). Eynsford, numerous, August 3rd 1953, July 30th 1955, August Sth 1957 (R. G. Chatelain). Trottis- cliffe, plentiful, August 12th 1961 (C.-H.); common, 1966-68 (D. O’Keeffe). 7. Rochester (Stephens, Haust., 3: 208). Nashenden Bottom; Bur- ham (Chaney, Joc. cit.). Common on the Boxley Hills above the Pilgrims’ Road (Reid, S.E. Nat., 1904: 53). Boxley, 1904, numerous in E. Goodwin coll. (C.-H.). Detling (G .V. Bull). Burham, common, August 18th 1957 (E. Philp); one, July 31st 1960 (Skinner, Proc. S. Lond. ent. nat. Hist. Soc., 1960: 89). 8. In the utmost profusion in some grassy fields east of Dover Castle (Stephens, Joc. cit.). Dover (Grant, Zoologist, 2583); 1860 (Fere- day, Ent. week. Int., 9: 139); 1861 (Stonestreet, Ent. week. Int., 10: 187). Temple Ewell, very common, 1939; Fan Bay, not uncommon (A. J. L. Bowes). Coombe Hole, three, August 17th 1898; Kearsney, one, August 28th 1898; Dover Cliffs, 7 4 @, 1 92, August 18th 1895 (H. D. Stock- well, Diary). May be found often commonly on the Cliffs and Downs round Dover and between Dover and Deal (E. & Y., 1949). Deal, September 3rd, 7th 1860 (Fenn, Lep. Data MS.). Deal and St. Mar- garet’s Bay, very common, August 18th-25th 1888 (Fenn, Lep. Data MS.); 1890-91 (Fenn, Ent. Rec., 1:204, 2: 203-4). Kingsdown, not scarce, August 15th-27th 1884 (Fenn, Lep. Data MS.); 1924, July 12th (2), 23rd (12) (H. G. Gomm, Diary). St. Margaret’s Bay, 1925, 1927 (H. G. Gomm, Diary); fairly common, 1969 (T. W. Harman). Folke- stone, July 24th-August Ist 1858 (H. Tompkins, Diary); 1860 (Fereday, loc. cit.); abundant, 1864 (Meek, Ent. mon. Mag., 1: 190). Folkestone Warren, abundant (Knaggs, 1870); frequent, 1892 (E. D. Morgan); 1932 (J. H. B. Lowe); one, July 30th 1949 (E. C. Pelham-Clinton); frequent annually; on July 14th 1963, I took a full-grown larva on P. sativum from which I reared a 2 on August 7th 1963 (C.-H.). Sugar Loaf Hill, Folkestone, not scarce 1946, 1950, 1953, 1954, 1955, disturbed by day from coarse grass, always more males than females (C.-H.). Crundale Downs, a few, August 19th 1960 (C. R. Haxby and J. Briggs). 9. Ramsgate neighbourhod*, c. 1888 (Willson, Entomologist, 23: 10. Bitchett Common, Sevenoaks, 1951, about six in a small area of dried-up bracken (G. A. N. Davis); two of these specimens are in my coll. (C.-H.).1 1A most curious locality for this normally calcareous downland species: I can only suppose that a stray female alighted here and founded a colony. LEPIDOPTERA OF KENT (177) 11. Tunbridge Wells district*, apparently scarce (R. H. Rattray in Knipe, 1916). 15. Dungeness, one, September 7th 1936 (A. M. Morley). 16. Hythe, 1950 (A. M. Swain). Folkestone Town, one 1952, one 1953 (A. M. Morley). VARIATION. — The following are in RCK: ab. vittata Cockayne, allotype 2, Dover, Chatwin, 1884; ab. suffusa Cockayne (2 6 ¢ para- types), S.E. Kent, 1897; Snodland, August 9th 1901, C. R. N. Burrows; ab. conspersaria Stgr., Folkestone (4), Dover (1); ab. “no discoidal spot’, Folkestone, one, Folkesotne, L. B. Prout, 1910. Vinall (Entomologist, 38:61) records a female, taken Folkestone Warren, July 25th 1904, which appears to conform to ab. suffusa Cockayne judging by the description. First REcorD, 1831: Stephens, Joc. cit. A. ochrearia Rossi : Yellow Belle. Resident, perhaps native. Sea walls and waste places by the sea- shore, lucerne fields and rough grassy places on the coast; on Daucus carota. Recorded from all divisions except 10, 14. Common to abundant on the coast, becoming scarcer inland. Few records for 5, 7, 11; doubt- fully for 13. Vaughan (Ent. Ann., 1868: 119) records the larva at Herne Bay on wild carrot (D. carota). 5. Chelsfield, 1950 (A. M. Swain). 7. Westwell, one, October Ist 1962 (E. Scott). if Aytesford. “f951 @).' 1952" (1). °1953'"C), -1954 G) (GSA. WN: Davis). [13. ‘“‘Only one or two have been taken on Broadwater Forest” (Knipe, 1916); this may be Sussex (C.-H.).] VARIATION. — The moth has two generations, the spring brood moths are referable to gen. aestiva Schaw. The following named aber- rations are in RCK: glabra Lempke, Folkestone, Cuxton, Sheppey; unipuncta Lempke, Deal, 1898 (1); obsoleta Lempke, Isle of Sheppey (2), Romney Marsh (1); ab. with “transverse lines connected in centre’, Deal, 1898 (1). Role’ (Proc! SS.” Lond: ent. nat. “Hist.-Soc., 4955-22. pit: iN... fis. 3) exhibited a curious “‘asymmetrical variety”, caught at Deal, August 22nd 1955: First Recorp, 1809: “Habitat in Cantiae Agris, at infrequens”’ (Haworth, Lep. Brit., 2: 288). Dyscia fagaria Thunberg : Grey Scalloped Bar. Native, extinct. Heaths; on Calluna vulgaris. 1. West Wickham, several specimens bred June 1859 from larvae found feeding on heath (B[utton], Ent. week. Int., 6:99); from larvae on heath, bred May 20th 1861 (Huckett, Ent. week. Int., 10: 117). Petts Wood, a larva, May 6th 1865 (Fenn, Diary) (Chislehurst (V.C.H., 1908) probably refers; Paul’s Cray Common (Fenn, in Wool. Surv., 1909) certainly does). 6. Greenhithe* (V.C.H., 1908). First REcoRD, 1859: B[utton], loc. cit. Perconia strigillaria Hubner : Grass Wave. Native. Wood borders and clearings; [on Calluna vulgaris]. 1. West Wickham (1858) (Barrett, Ent. week. Int., 4: 109). Petts Wood, a larva, May 6th 1865, imago reared (Fenn, Diary). 3. Thornden Wood, eight, June 10th 1865 (Fenn, Diary). East Blean Wood [and Thornden Wood], thirty-five, May 26th-June 2nd 1866 (Fenn, Diary). Church Wood, one, June 22nd 1913, in R. P. A. Hunt coll. (C.-H.). Near Herne, ¢, June 11th 1937 (P. F. Harris). 6a. Chattenden Roughs, 1869 (J. J. Walker MS.); common, June 12th 1884 (Fenn, Diary); (Chaney, 1884-87); common until 1918, not looked for since (H. C. Huggins); four, June ist 1925 (F. T. Grant); 6, June 4th 1958 (C.-H.). 8. East Downs, Folkestone (Knaggs, 1870). [11. Wateringbury, 9 6, 2 2 2, in E. Goodwin coll. (C.-H.). 178) LEPIDOPTERA OF KENT W. A. Cope, who knew both Goodwin and this locality intimately, told me he had never heared of strigillaria from there. The series bears printed labels, but no dates have been entered (C.-H.).] 13. Groombridge (Bull, Proc. S. Lond. ent. nat. Hist. Soc., 1931- 32: 59). Tunbridge Wells, two or three in 1957 and 1958 (L. R. Tesch per C. A. Stace). [Abundant a few yards across the Sussex border from Tunbridge Wells (E. D. Morgan).] 14. Tenterden (Stainton, Man., 2: 64). VARIATION. — Kentish woodland strigillaria are pale and lightly marked compared with those from the moors either in the north or south (Tutt, Ent. Rec., 4: 230, 233); they appear to conform to sub.sp. fuscosignata Lempke (C.-H.). In RCK is ab. diluta Lempke, Chattenden. First Recorp, 1809: ‘Habitat apud nos Imago in Cantio valde infrequens”’ (Haworth, Lep. Brit., 2: 288). HEPIALIDAE Hepialus (Hepialus) humuli L. : Ghost Swift. Native. Waste places, rough meadows, etc.; in roots of Rumex obtusifolius, hop, strawberry and exceptionally on apple fruit. Recorded from all divisions except 15 (probably present). “Generally common’’ (V.C.H., 1908). The moth is normally on the wing from the end of June, but in 1912, F. T. Grant took a @ at Darenth Wood on May 18th; and in 1953, W. L. Rudland one at Wye on August 14th. D. F. Owen found larvae and pupae on a bombed site at Lewisham about 1946; and F. Gillett (Diary) bred the moth, June 25th 1917, from a pupa found at Chevening. A. A. Allen has occasionally found the larvae in turf about Charlton and Shooters Hill. On September 12th 1949, D. Lanktree took a larva at Lee that was feeding on the roots of R. obtusifolius; and according to Theobald (J/.S.E. Agric. Coll. Wye, 1906 (15), 102), ‘‘Mr. Till of Eynsford sent a nearly mature larva found tunnelling up a dock (Rumex) stem in March’. Massee (Rpt. E. Malling Res. Stn., 1935: 166) recorded the larva in Kent on the roots of hops and an attack in 1935 at Goudhurst on the roots of strawberries. He (idem, 1946: 58) further noted an outbreak on strawberries in a straw- berry field near Faversham in 1946; and (idem, 1955: 131) at Marden, larvae feeding on the young fibrous roots of hop the beginning of June 1955. Massee also recorded (Rpt. E. Malling Res. Stn., 1943: 58) that at Barming in early May 1943, a number of Bramley’s Seedling apples removed from a gas store were infested with the larvae. VARIATION. —A @ that I took at Broad Oak, July Ist 1946, is a monster with alar expanse 76 mm.; it is probably referable to ab. grandis Pfitzner (C.-H.). First ReEcorpD, 1858: [Chattenden] ‘I only met with one specimen (a ae of this very common species’? (Crozier, Nat. Hist. Rev., 3: 5 H. (Triodia) sylvina L. : Wood Swift. Native. Waste land, gardens, heaths, etc.; on roots of dock, Pteridium aquilinum, Echium vulgare. Fairly frequent and found in all divisions. The moth is normally on the wing from late July to throughout August and early September; in 1941, however, R. F. Birchenough took one at West Wickham on June 21st (Birchenough, Ent. Rec., 63: 12). Knaggs (1870) records the larva in Folkestone Warren feeding on the roots of dock; and Purdey (Entomologist, 8:226) noted that [at Folkestone] the larva forms ‘‘a passage leading to the root of Echium vulgare, upon which it feeds . . .” In the spring of 1957, I took a larva in my garden at West Wickham which was feeding on the roots s ee (P. aquilinum) and from which in due course I bred a VARIATION. — The following are in RCK: Ab. crux F., Herne Bay, one, 1905, L. B. Prout; Kent, two, 1912. Ab. pallidus Hormuz., Strood. F. T. Grant had a specimen with five wings (three hindwings), Tankerton, August 15th 1912. First ReEcorD, 1828: Birch Wood (Stephens, Haust., 2: 8). 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SE EE EN I a TE I FBT ESET NES OE TEE EATS PEL OS ETS REG OS EROS EEE SPECIAL NOTICE The Editor would be willing to consider the purchase of a limited number of certain back issues. SS ETS EI TS AS PRE TE YEE TE SI EES PRE EAGER TEE PEO CONTENTS New Palaearctic Butterflies. Dr. L. G. HIGGINS The Scarcity of the Orange-tailed Clearwing (Aegeria andrenaeformis Lasp.). M. L. BRITTON : aa bts : Coleoptera from Rothamsted light traps at Monks Wood National Nature Reserve, Cambridgeshire during 1976. Dr. R. C. WELCH Hymenia recurvalis (Fab.) and other Lepidoptera at Pas October 1976. P. M. STIRLING ... Further Notes on Erebia in the French Massif Central. G. N. BURTON _ Observations on Butterflies at Hilton, Derbyshire, 1970-1976, and a day in Devon. A. W. SPEED oe : bee Further Notes on Species of the Genus Aloeides a _ Lycaenidae No. 2. G. E. TITE and C. G. C. DICKSON . Collecting Lepidoptera in Britain se 1976. Baron C. G. N de WORMS ; cps : Wee sia Jo Notes and Observations: Helina protuberans Zett. (Dipt.: Muscidae) New to Kent and S.E. England. A. A. ALLEN ... tens ke Infurcitinea argentimaculella Stt. (Lep.: Tineidae) in Kent. _E. S. BRADFORD : aie ae The Spanish Fly on Blister Beetle: Lytta vesicatoria L. (Col.: Meloidae). J. M. CHALMERS-HUNT i. 5 Agrotis ipsilon Hufn. in March. A. E. C. ADAMS Longitarsus reichei Allard (Col.: Chrysomelidae) in West Sussex on yet another probable Foodplant. A. A. ALLEN Lozopera beatricella Walsingham in Derbyshire and Yorkshire in 1976. F. HARRISON Agriopis marginaria F. f. ne pail H. E. CHIPPER- FIELD He ) é : Hee Vie Evidence concerning the Death of Eleazar Albin. Dr. R. S. WILKINSON us fis ye 5 Loe a Geomyza breviseta Cz. and G. venusta Mg. (Dipt.: Opomyzidae) in West Kent, the latter confirmed as British. A. A. ALLEN The Hazards of Moth Hunting. M. HADLEY ... Scythris fletcherella Meyrick in Kent. J. 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For full details of publications and activities, please write (enclosing 5p stamp to cover postage) to: — R. D. HILLIARD, Hon. Advertising Secretary, A.E.S., 18 Golf Close, Stanmore, Middlesex. 5 BRITISH NATURALISTS’ ASSOCIATION has twenty active branches in Britain and a world-wide membership. It’s official organ, Country-Side (published three times a year), is the oldest-established British magazine devoted to general natural history Membership subscription £1.50 per annum Full details and application form (s.a.e.) obtainable from: B.N.A., ‘Willowfield’, Boyneswood Rd., Four Marks, Alton, Hants THE NATURALIST (founded 1875) A Quarterly Illustrated Journal of Natural History Edited by M. R. D. SEAWARD, M.Sc., Ph.D. Annual subscription: £4.00 (post free) Single numbers £1.00. Separates of the collected instalments of the:— LEPIDOPTERA OF YORKSHIRE (Macrolepidoptera) which appeared serially in The Naturalist (1967-1970) are also available on application. Price 50p plus 9p postage Also MARCROLEPIDOPTERA OF SPURN HEAD, E. YORKSHIRE (The Naturalist 1974). Price 25p, plus 64p postage The Editor of the Naturalist, University of Bradford, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD7 1DP PLATE XxXI Fig.1-Map of Aberdeenshire and Kincardine showing recorded squares. €) Fewer than 20 records @ More than 20 records e r VA Sd : “se cane | en eR ee fe 2 tae cain | RagGees. oo Fig.2 - Coastal types, river valleys and high ground AS. 8 ® ao Rees Sand dunes a Rocky shore and rivers Major lochs 1000 ft.and above I) 2000 ft.and above 285 The Origin and Distribution of Aberdeenshire and Kincardine Lepidoptera By R. M. PALMER’ and M. R. YOUNG? Introduction It is only since the inception of the various national distribution schemes (e.g. Perring and Walters, 1962; Heath, 1970) that we have known anything but the broadest details of the distribution of all but our rarest species of animals or plants. These broad details have been used previously as the basis for studies on the origins of the groups (e.g. Beirne, 1952; Godwin, 1956). Now, however, at least with the Lepi- doptera, it is possible to look in more detail at the distribution of individual species and so to speculate on their origins in more local terms. Aberdeenshire and Kincardine were chosen for such a study primarily because sufficient data were available (Palmer, 1974-76; Palmer & Young, 1977). Furthermore the area includes a wide range of habitats positioned in an interesting and atypical part of the British Isles. Together they are large enough so that the 10 km. square system used by the national distribution schemes is of a scale which corresponds with the physical features so allowing interesting zoo-geographical comparisons to be made. This study attempts first to identify the main components of the lepidopterous fauna of Aberdeenshire and Kincardine and then includes speculation on their origin (in local terms). The Data The data used are those on which Palmer (1974-76) and Palmer & Young (1977) were based with the addition of more recent records collected by the authors, Mr. P. Greig-Smith, Mr. P. Smith and Mr. N. Forteath. This includes all known published records and those of many local collectors as acknowledged in Palmer’s papers. Only recent records are used in the present study except for species whose status is certain. The records are grouped within 10 km. squares of the national Ordinance Survey grid. Some parts of the area have not been adequately recorded (notably north Aberdeenshire and south, inland Kincardine) but the spread of recorded squares (see fig. 1) is such that general distribution patterns are clear. The Study Area The original vice counties of North and South Aberdeen- shire and Kincardine together contain many contrasting habitats. For the purpose of this paper these have been classified generally as follows Coastal — sand dune systems —rocky shores 12 Glenhome Gardens, Dyce, Aberdeen. 2Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen. 286 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15 /MA/ Ti Inland — farmland (including arable and pasture) — deciduous woodland — coniferous woodland — lowland heaths — upland vegetation — river valleys — other wetlands (carr, marsh, bog, etc.) The coastal types, the river valleys and land over 1,000 ft. and 2,000 ft. are shown on fig. 2. In general terms north-east Aberdeenshire and the coastal plain are farmland; west Aberdeen and inland Kincardine are heaths of varying altitude and these areas are dissected by the Dee, Don, Ythan and Ugie river systems. Coniferous woodland is largely confined to upper and middle Deeside, Benachie (in mid Aberdeenshire) and parts of Kincardine; deciduous woodland is scarce and discontinuous and there are many lowland heaths scattered through the farmland area. Rocky and sandy coastline alternates and is of approxi- mately equal length. Climatologically the area is also diverse. There is a small euoceanic northern-temperate area in south Kincardine whilst most of the lowland is euoceanic hemi-boreal, the north- eastern fringe being rather drier. The upland area ranges from hemioceanic southern-boreal to hemioceanic upper oro-arctic on the high tops (Birse, 1971). Most of the area has relatively base poor soils, with extensive granitic areas, but there are scattered, small serpen- tine and limestone outcrops. These are isolated but have some entomological interest due to the presence on them of calcicole plants such as Helianthemum chamaecistus Mill. (Rock-rose) and Anthyllis vulneria L. (Kidney Vetch). The Lepidopterous Fauna To assist in discussion of the origin of the fauna it seemed appropriate to identify the major groups of species with respect to the overall habitat distinctions. These groups are as follows: — 1. Sand dune species: A small number of moths, exemplified by Euxoa cursoria (Hufn.) and Agrotis vestigialis (Hufn.) (fig. 3), are restricted to the sandy coast (apart from one stray specimen of A. vestigialis found inland). We have too little information to know if they extend to the north-eastern sand dunes. In some cases these have a foodplant with a restricted distribution (e.g. Agrotis ripae (Hiibn.) which feeds on Cakile maritima Scop.), however other factors are obviously implicated for other species. Mythimna litoralis (Curtis) is now apparently restricted to the extreme south-east coast of Kincardine (although it was reported by Cowie, 1901 from Aberdeen) and this is presumably climatological as its foodplant (Ammophila arenaria (L.)) is found on dunes throughout the region. PLATE XXII ee fee fe) | Pe I Fig.3-The distribution of Agrotis vestigialis Hufn. a sand dune specis So ae Seek Hess ¢ Pe eer) eT ee > eee Pe chet ek aR PL oe a al - Fig.4- The distribution of Lobesia littoralis (H.and W.) a species of rocky shores PLATE XXIII Fig.5- The distribution of Agriphila straminella(D.and S.) a general lowland species. HORE tata ene BRRMRe <8 SRERMAPCa eee Eee eeeek |. AT SS RT eee eee rr a ee Eee oc (L) Fig.6- The distribution of Ematurga atomaria a general heathland species ABERDEENSHIRE AND KINCARDINE LEPIDOPTERA 287 2. Rocky coast species: A similar number of species are confined to, or are most abundant on, the rocky coasts. Lobesia littoralis (Humphreys and Westwood) (fig. 4) is of this group and is typical of several others in that it is confined to the Kincardine coast. Other group members are (for example) Standfussiana lucernea (L.) and Eilema lurideola (Zincken), although the latter has occasionally been recorded inland; two further examples are not restricted to the coast, although they are far commonest there, but at least in the past have been recorded inland, namely Cupido minimus (Fuessly) and Aricia artaxerxes (Fab.). The latter is some- times abundant at its coastal sites, witness Reid (1893) ‘““Muchalls has long been noted as a good locality”’. The Kincardine section of the coast is botanically rich and so supports the largest lepidopterous fauna. In particular St. Cyrus, a national nature reserve on the south-eastern tip of the county, has a range of habitats including rocky areas, sand dunes and salt marsh (Robertson and Gimingham, 1951) and this variety, combined with its relatively dry and warm climate, make it a prime entomological site. 3. General lowland species: Many species are found generally throughout the lowland zone. Obvious examples are Xestia xanthographa (D. & S.) and Xanthorhoe montanata (D. & S.) and fig. 5 shows this distribution for Agriphila straminella (D. & S.). The group includes many species which feed on grasses, common crop plants or roadside weeds and most spread up the river valleys before being restricted altitudinally. 4. General heathland species: Several species are associated with heaths but are not restricted to the upland areas. They are scattered over the whole region wherever heaths are to be found and so species have to be assigned to this group by reference both to their distribution and to their foodplants. Lycophotia porphyrea (D. & S.) is an excellent example, as are Ematurga atomaria (L.) (fig. 6) and Neofaculta ericetella (Hubn.). 5. Upland species: An important group of species are found either only above a certain height or over a restricted altitudinal range. In some cases this is determined by the range of the food- plant. Semiothisa carbonaria (Clerck) (fig. 7), for example, is found with its foodplant Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (L.) down to 500 ft. In other cases, however, altitude (and hence presum- ably climatic conditions) seems pre-eminent; Psodos coracina (Esper) is found only above 2,000 ft. and is restricted to areas so exposed that the vegetation and soil are eroded, whereas its foodplant, Empetrum nigrum L., is unrestricted and reaches sea level on the sand dunes. Many species show an intermediate preferred altitudinal range; Coenonympha tullia (Mull.) is found between 500 and 2,000 ft., for example, and is restricted to rather boggy areas. 288 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XI1/77 As might be expected in an area which is truly moun- tainous, many upland species are present representing most families and including, for example, Xestia alpicola (H. and W.), Udea uliginosalis (Stephens), Olethreutes schulziana (Fab.) and Stigmella tengstroemi (Nolcken). 6. Woodland species: A wide range of species are restricted to woodland of one kind or another. This group is heterogeneous as regards their origins for some trees, for example Pinus sylvestris L., Betula sp. and Juniperus communis L. are native to the area, whereas others, for example Quercus sp. or Picea sp., are not. This is discussed further below. They are very few oak woods in the area and only three are at all extensive but Dichonia aprilina (L.) is to be found in each of these and Eriocrania subpurpurella (Haworth) in at least one. Birch, by contrast, is found throughout the region and forms extensive, but often sparse, woods, particularly along Deeside. Several species are restricted to these woods, for example Achyla flavicornis (L.) and Diurnea fagella (D. & S.). Juniper is found as thickets in several places in middle and upper Deeside and associated with these are a number of moths, exemplified by Thera cognata (Thunb.) (fig. 8). Pine is probably native but artificial plantings have con- fused its distribution pattern. Amongst several others Semio- thisa liturata (Clerck) and Bupalus piniaria (L.) are restricted to pine woods and are generally widespread. The non-native conifers (e.g. Picea sp.) also have moths associated with them as, for example, Eupithecia lariciata (Freyer) with Larix sp. and &. tantillaria (Boisd.) with Picea sp. 7. River valley and wetland group: Some species are restricted to damp areas and are found in bogs or along the river valleys. Anthocharis cardamines (L.) is a case in point (fig. 9) being restricted to areas where Cardamine pratensis L. is abundant (generally river valleys) and Harpyia furcula (Clerck) and Acronicta menyanthidis (Esper) are examples of species found generally in very wet bogs and marshes. Although some members of the group are widespread, others are confined to specific types of wetland. Euphydryas aurinia (Rott.) is now found only in one small bog where presumably its exact habitat requirements are met. In low- land areas improved drainage is probably the single most important habitat change to have taken place since records have been available (c. 1890) and the increasing restriction of species like E. aurinia is likely to be due to this. 8. Specialist species: Some species do not fit easily into any group but obviously have special requirements. These include a number such as Argynnis aglaia (L.), Crambus pratella (L.) (see fig. 10) and Gnophos obfuscatus (D. & S.) which are found both on the coast and in the valleys of upper Deeside. What (if anything) PLATE XXIV SCOPES CLC eer CLELELT eee RCCL Re Clerck) ( (4) re (4) (= (e) Ke} hb 14) O © 2 be Cd 2 £ o VY) _ e) Cc o) ‘= =) a cS al 2 T ® be - I nw @)) LL o © O ® a. o 1 e = a. =| < © ~ —_— 2) 2) ‘e) b om ~ ® > 12) me) ( © = RERReT <.: Te RRBREe Se a BRB Rae eis ) (Thunb -The distribution of Thera cognata associated with Juniper Fig.8 ABERDEENSHIRE AND KINCARDINE LEPIDOPTERA 289 these ‘habitats have in common remains uncertain. Perhaps the species in question have separated into distinct populations with differing requirements. Others such as Zygaena exulans (Howenworth), Perconia strigillaria (Hubn.) and Epione paralellaria (D. & S.) seem to be restricted to single localities, presumably by a combination of botanical, climatological and edaphic features since their foodplants are all widespread. The case of Selidosema brun- nearia (Vill.) is even more difficult to explain. Its only site in the region is St. Cyrus in south-eastern Kincardine where its usual foodplant (Calluna vulgaris (L.)) is absent. 9. Migrants: Many species are certainly migrants not normally resident in the area, Vanessa atalanta (L.) and Cynthia cardui (L.) being excellent examples. The group includes species of all groups and sizes from Plutella xylostella (L.) to Acherontia atropos (L.) and their origins provide valuable clues as to the possible origins of some of the resident fauna. It seems clear, for example, that the North Sea provides little barrier for species from Scandinavia (e.g. Eurois occulta (L.) and Nym- phalis antiopa (L.)), whilst others orginate in the south, C. cardui being a good example. (Incidentally, FE. occulta also occurs as a resident being darker than the migrant individuals and being found only in inland areas.) Origins of the Fauna These overall groupings will surprise no-one and do not necessarily indicate a common origin amongst the group members. There are two types of data which do indicate the possible origins of certain species and these are (1) present day distri- butions and (2) the recorded spread of certain species in the last 100 years. Excluding migrants which have not established themselves and species probably unrecognised or “‘missed”’ in the past, there are at least nine species which have spread within the area or are complete newcomers since 1890. Some of these provide clear evidence of the directions of their spread. Idaea seriata (Schrank) was recorded on the Kincardine coast in 1878 and 1902 but is now quite common near Aber- deen and has been recorded as far inland as Ballater in middle Deeside. Polychrysia moneta (Fab.) was recorded in Aberdeen in 1945, spread at least as far as Kemnay (12 miles N.W. of Aberdeen) until 1955 and was last seen in Aberdeen in 1958. These examples seem to indicate an immigration route from the south through Kincardine. This pattern is reflected in the present distribution of several species in that they are most common in Kincardine and least so in North Aberdeenshire (e.g. Hadena bicruris Hufn., see fig. 11). There are a few contrasting examples which may have colonised the area from the north. Erebia aethiops (Esp.) is 290 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/ AL TT found in Aberdeenshire most commonly near Huntly where it is at the eastern end of its Moray range. (The small popu- lation around Braemar is discussed later.) The population at Huntly, lying as it does north of the mountainous fringe in the area, is hardly in the Aberdeenshire area proper but is of interest as Barbour (1976) reports that it has extended into the Moray area in the last century. Now it is common in most woods in that area (Barbour pers. comm.) and it will be of interest to see if it can spread further into Aberdeenshire over the Glens of Foudland (700 ft.) which are the lowest pass on the county’s northern fringe. There are other species which may also have spread from the Moray coast where they have at least a foothold (e.g. the single Aberdeenshire record of Mormo maura (L.)) and this may also be the origin of our only specimens of Spilosoma luteum (Hufn.) which have been found near Turriff and near Aberdeen. These illustrate the problem of lowland migration into the area. The north-eastern coastal plain is very narrow and exposed and does not seem to have been used. This leaves only the Kincardine coastal belt which has already been mentioned. It is a continuum of farmland, heaths and coni- ferous woodland but is narrowed immediately to the south of Aberdeen city by the western spur of the Cairngorms which extends to within several miles of the sea and is 700 ft. and above in height. [However, if this narrowing presented a real barrier to immigration some species should be present in Kincardineshire but not in Aberdeenshire. This does not seem to be the case. ] There are a number of passes in the Cairngorms and the other fringing hills, but all are above 700 ft. The Glens of Foudland (see above), for example, and its adjacent valleys, form one possible migration route but otherwise access over the main Cairngorms is at 2,000 ft. or more. Widespread migration through these passes seems less likely than coastal migration but the population of EF. aethiops in upper Deeside may be the result of migration through Glenshee, Glen Tilt or the Lairig Ghru. Specimens have been seen at 2,000 ft. in Glen Tilt (Payne, pers. comm.). Of course migration through mountain passes has been observed on many occasions (Williams, 1958) but apart from EF. aethiops does not seem to be implicated as an immigration route into Aberdeenshire if present-day distributional evidence is to be accepted. Species present on the coast have obviously found the alternating sand and rock to be no barrier and Agrotis ripae and A. vestigialis, for example, are found in both Kincardine and Aberdeenshire. The spread of some species into north-east Scotland seems to have followed the increase or introduction of their food- plants. This applies to many spruce and larch feeders and the recent dramatic increase of Pterophora chlorosata (Scop.) probably reflects the continuing increase of bracken in the area. It is of great interest that Photedes elymi (Treitschke) Sit ALY tie A ae ik, em PLATE XXVI SS EE Pertti ha Fig.11-The epee of Hadena bicruris (Hufn.) outhern species in the area a genera Penmaes | BAReeee | |. Cee ee A eee aa rete eegeseec | | | 2 | eel ae EAganEe ce SERRHEGSE Fig.12- The distribution of Semiothisa brunneata(Thunb.) a lowland,northern species ABERDEENSHIRE AND KINCARDINE LEPIDOPTERA 291 has recently spread from immediately to the south of Kincar- dine at Montrose, where it is well established, to St. Cyrus, Kincardine where Lyme grass (Elymus arenarius L.) is now common. Perhaps it will continue to spread further up the coast. All the species mentioned so far (except Erebia aethiops) are of a southern distribution in the British Isles and Europe generally and probably colonised the area in post-glacial times. No land remained unglaciated in north-east Scotland in the last major glaciations (that is the three main glaciations in the fourth Pleistocene ice age) and so there are no inter- glacial relicts amongst the fauna. These post-glacial species will have spread into the area at different times and the recent extensions of some species (and the subsequent retreat of Polychrysia moneta) are probably part of the continuing fluctuations in range of species in a dymnamic balance with the changing climate. North-east Scotland is certainly at the edge of the range of many species, Inachis io (L.), for example, is resident in southern Scotland but is found in Aberdeen only sporadically. There are also many species found in the “upland” group which are more generally northern or upland in distribution and which as British species are glacial relicts. They would have extended further south in Britain during the last glacia- tion and have since retreated as the climate has ameliorated (Beirne, 1952 and Ford, 1950). Those now found at low alti- tude in Aberdeenshire (e.g. Anarta cordigera (Thunb.)) were probably found further from the ice front than others (e.g. A. melanopa (Thunb.)) now found only above 2,500 ft. Some species in this group whilst being northern are also lowland (e.g. Semiothisa brunneata (Thunb.) see fig. 12) and are found on the lower fringe of the Cairngorms. Presumably these glacial relicts are the oldest colonists of the area and if the climate ameliorates further they should retreat to increasing altitude. There is no evidence of such a change since 1890 unless the recent lowland scarcity of Hyppa rectilinea (Esp.) and Olethreutes schultziana (Fab.) is such. (It seems more likely to be lack of searching at the appropriate season.) Some of these upland species are effectively isolated in the Cairngorms but there seems to be no evidence that they are now distinct morphogenetically from populations in the other Scottish mountain areas. Perhaps no one has looked for this! It seems likely, therefore, than the vast majority of the Aberdeenshire and Kincardine lepidoptera are either glacial relicts or post-glacial colonists by the lowland routes or directly across the North Sea. That leaves a few anomalous species, some of which have already been mentioned. Zygaena exulans, for example, is probably a glacial relict which has specialised to allow it to survive outside what is now its normal range. _ Endromis versicolora (Linn.), which is widespread in middle Deesde, remains another celebrated puzzle as do Bembecia muscaeformis (Esp.) and Setina irrorella (L.) (if the latter is 292 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XI1/77 still present) both of which have a few scattered, coastal sites in Britain. Another interesting example is Erynnis tages (Linn.) which has been found sporadically over the whole of north- eastern Scotland (Harper, pers. comm.; Barbour, 1976) and has been known in Aberdeenshire since 1855 (MacGillivray, 1855). Presumably this primarily southern species is a post- glacial colonist which is here on the edge of its range and so has very exact habitat requirements and maintains only a slender presence. Summary 1. On the basis of the authors’ data (Palmer, 1974-76; Palmer & Young, 1977) the lepidoptera of Aberdeenshire and Kincardine is grouped into nine groups corresponding to major habitat divisions and these groups are discussed. 2. By examining these groups, records of the spread of recent colonists and the geographical nature of the area it is postulated that (a) the fauna is a mixture of glacial relicts and post-glacial colonists and that (b) the main invasion route has been along the Kincardine coastal plain. How- ever there is some evidence to suggest that a few species may have invaded Aberdeenshire from Moray to the north and that this may be continuing. oe References Barbour, D. A. 1976 Macrolepidoptera of Banffshire. Ent. Rec., 88: Beirne, B. P. 1952. The origin and history of the British fauna. London. Birse, E. L. 1971. Assessment of climatic conditions in Scotland. 3. Bioclimatic sub-regions. Macauley Institute for Soil Research, Aberdeen. Cowie, W. 1901-6. Macrolepidoptera of Aberdeen and neighbourhocd. Trans. Aberd. wkg. Mens nat. Hist. Soc., 1: 20-35. Ford, E. B. 1950. Moths. Collins, New Naturalist. ee. H. 1956. The History of the British Flora. Cambridge Univ. Tess. Heath, J. 1975. Insect Distribution Maps Scheme: Lepidoptera Rhopalo- cera. Biological Records Centre. MacGillivray, W. 1855. The Natural History of Deesside and Braemar. Aberdeen. Palmer, R. R. 1974-1976. Lepidoptera of Aberdeenshire and Kincardine- shire. Ent. Rec., 86: 33-34; 87: 180-188, 218-224; 88: 121-126, 196-203. Palmer, R. M. and Young, M. R. 1977. Lepidoptera of Aberdeenshire and Sincardinesiiie: Appendix to Parts 1 and 2. Ent. Rec., 89: Perring, F. H. and Walters, S. M. 1962. Atlas of the British Flora. London and New York. Reid, W. 1893. List of Lepidoptera of Aberdeenshire and Kincardine- shire. (Repr. from Br. Nat., 1-3: 1891-3). Robertson, E. T. and Gimingham, C. H. 1951. Contributions to the maritime ecology of St. Cyrus, Kincardineshire, pts. 1, 2. Trans. Bot. Soc. Edin., 35: 371-413. Williams, C. B. 1958. Insect migration. Collins New Naturalist. 293 Avian Predation on Butterflies — Again By Dr. A. M. SHAPIRO* A few decades ago the theory of mimicry was ostensibly discredited by negative evidence: birds “did not eat’’ butter- flies. A bit later the notion that industrial melanism was a consequence of selective predation was pooh-poohed: birds “did not eat’? moths at rest. Still more recently the passage of plant poisons through food chains was ridiculed because birds did eat “unpalatable” butterflies. Bird predation on butterflies is a volatile subject with great Darwinian import, and interest in it goes in seeming cycles. Most recently Muyshondt and Muyshondt (1976, Ent. Rec., 88: 283-285) have revived the issue, asserting that in long field experience in the Neotropics they have seen only two bird attacks on flying butterflies. This observation, however at variance with pre- vailing dogma — or precisely because it is — deserves serious consideration; all the more since it comes from low latitudes, where both predation and its evolutionary sequelae are said to be mostly highly developed. It is not an adequate defence of the reality of avian predation to assert that mimicry is inexplicable without it. This is the sort of “proof’? adduced for the existence of phlogiston or, later, the ether. On the other hand, negative evidence is proverbially rickety. A few personal observations bear on this. I spend more time afield than most people, some 200 days a year, and I see perhaps five such attacks a year on the average. They are infrequent enough in my purview that I note them carefully, and I am inclined to agree with the Muyshondts that by and large flying butterflies are rarely pursued in the air. Moreover, most such pursuits are unsuccessful. My own experience with mass migrants (mainly Nymphalis californica and Vanessa cardui) also matches the Muyshondts’: despite vast abundance, predation seems to be almost nil. The migrant case departs from the usual in that the animals can often be had with little or no effort and are also unusually valuable nutritionally, being full of yellow fat. Migratory Nymphalids are presumably edible, being cryptically coloured. They are as a rule an unpredictable resource, but why have we no records of birds (which are otherwise such good opportunists) making use of them when they are available — unless, as the Muyshondts suggest, they are simply not recognised as food items? Despite these circumstances, avian predation is definitely important to butterflies. The data on beak-mark frequencies, which the Muyshondts treat rather summarily, bear witness to this. In 1974 I published some statistics on beak-mark frequency in monthly samples of common multivoltine butter- flies in lowland central California (American Naturalist, 108: 229-232). These were based on 19,787 specimens of four species * Department of Zoology, University of California, Davis, California, U.S.A. 95616. 294 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 IS /ETT collected in 1972; 1,044 of these were beak-marked, or 5.3%; for individual monthly samples the percentage beak-marked varied from 1% to 17%, and there was a clear pattern of higher frequency in March-April (before bird breeding season) and October-November (well after). I interpreted these data as meaning that butterflies were attacked by birds more fre- quently at those times of the year when they were relatively common and more preferred classes of prey, e.g. grasshoppers, were proportionately scarce. Note that a beak-marked butterfly represents an unsuccessful predation, for whatever reason; thus it could be that the lower incidence of beak-marked specimens in summer means more successful predation, though that seems unlikely (unless butterflies are less palatable, hence more likely to be rejected after being taken, in cold seasons). This temperate-zone muddle is confusing enough; whether anything like it occurs in the less seasonal tropis, I have no idea. Most of the beak marks in this study were, as the Muyshondts note, symmetrical — indicating that the animal was taken while at rest, with the wings over the back. Such attacks are readily observed on Clouded Yellows (Colias) in lucerne fields. They are probably the most common attacks on butterflies. Few birds (fly-catchers, swallows) make a living by taking small insects in mid-air, and they are only able to do so because they take them at a high enough rate to compensate for the high energetic cost. Such birds do not as a rule seem to prey on butterflies. In summary, then, our present knowledge justifies the assumption that avian predation on mid-latitude butterflies in flight is infrequent, and the same may be true in low latitudes. Predation on resting butterflies is another story. In those species which differ in their dorsal and ventral coloration, the latter is always the cryptic surface. It may be no accident that species involved in mimicry associations differ hardly, if at all, between the two surfaces! We are just beginning to learn about the adaptive signi- ficance of the roosting behaviour of butterflies at night and in bad weather. One of the functions of gregarious roosting, which occurs in many Neotropical taxa, may be to minimise predation. The migratory Monarch (Danaus plexippus) forms large overwintering aggregations, and predation is known to occur from them. Such aggregations bring together individuals of greatly differing palatabilities and increase the likelihood of exposing all the resident predators to emetic exerperiences. We do have a record (C. M. Fadem, in press) of a very small peripheral winter roost virtually eradicated, apparently by a single Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottes); the butterflies are believed to have been of low emetic potency. Here in California many small vacant-lot butterflies spend the night at the tips of flimsy weeds which will not bear a bird’s weight and which extend above a bird’s reach from the ground. In this position they are seemingly immune from attack when the birds are foraging around dawn, when the dew has not yet evaporated and the air is still too cold for AVIAN PREDATION ON BUTTERFLIES — AGAIN 295 butterflies to fly. Losses from such positions are virtually non- existent. If the butterflies are removed with forceps shortly before dawn and set on the bare grcund below the weeds, nearly all have been eaten within an hour after sunrise. (If they are removed at dusk and set on the ground, most are gone before morning — the mice or shrews have got them.) There is certainly much more to avian predation on butterflies than attacks in mid-air! A WEEK IN WEYMOUTH IN JuLy 1977. — I spent a week in the Weymouth area from 16th to 23rd July, 1977 hoping in particular to renew my acquaintance with the Lulworth Skipper (Thymelicus acteon Rott.), and also to explore the immediate vicinity of the town (including Portland Bill) and the coastal paths in both directions. The weather was generally good with reasonable spells of sunshine, though rather windy at times, and I recorded the following species of butterfly in order of declining abundance with the last four each contributing only one sighting: — Melanargia galathea L., Maniola jurtina L., Pyronia tithonus L., Thymelicus sylvestris Poda, Ochlodes venata B. & G., Aglais urticae L., Coenonympha pamphilus L., Pieris brassicae L., Pieris rapae L., Pieris napi L., Polyommatus icarus Rott., Pararge aegeria, L., Thymelicus acteon Rott., Aphantopus hyperanthus L., Polygonia c-album L., Vanessa atalanta L. and Vanessa cardui L. It was a pleasant surprise (certainly for an observer from Stafford) to note the profusion of galathea. My main quarry, acteon, was present in small numbers at a locality west of Lulworth Cove, whilst the most surprising omission during the week was surely phlaeas. A particularly productive area was a long bank of brambles, grasses and various flora just north- east of Ferrybridge. This locality held good numbers of galathea, jurtina, tithonus, sylvestris and venata, and was the only area where icarus and hyperanthus were recorded. Several small skippers at this site had dark brown tips to the under- sides of the antennae, which I assume were atypical sylvestris or lineola and I should be interested to hear if any other observers have seen the latter species in the Weymouth area. Incidentally, this bank was the classic habitat for the Great Green Bush Cricket (Tettigonia viridissima) and a rather cursory search revealed five or six of these insects. The rough, sloping meadows west of Osmington Mills were excellent for galathea and jurtina, whilst the only cardui of the week was imbibing at wild privet near Redcliff Point. The only moths recorded were the day-flying Callimorpha jacobaeae L., Zygaena filipendulae L., Plusia gamma L., Otho- _litha chenopodiata L. and, at Radipole Lake, a single Ourap- teryx sambucaria L. — G. SUMMERS, 23 West Close, Stafford, ST16 3TG. 296 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XI1/77 Inter-nest Battles of Formica lugubris Zetterstedt (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Ireland By JOHN BREEN, B.Sc., Ph.D.* Elton (1932) drew attention to the existence of territorial behaviour in wood ants (probably Formica rufa L. s.s.; I use the term wood ant, after Sudd 1967, p. 80, when the species’ identity is uncertain) and described an attack which took place on 31.iii.1929 in which one nest destroyed another. However, he considered that wood ant territories were normally main- tained without hostility. The existence of territories without inter-nest hostility has also been reported in wood ants (Dobrzanska 1958), F. pratensis Retzius and F. uralensis Ruzsky (Stebaev and Reznikova 1972) and F. pratensis (Reznikova 1974). Fig. 1 Map of the site in Moore’s Wood, South Tipperary, where “spring battles’? were observed in 1973 and 1974. The wood, bounded by the wire fence, is 42 year old Scots pine. A and B are the two nests described in the text. The “‘small nest” is the new site of the “abandoned” nest, and foragers from this nest and nest A have never been seen crossing the “‘sheep-track’’. Marikovsky (1962) described “savage battles’? amongst neighbouring wood ant nests. DeBruyn and Mabelis (1972) studied inter-nest fighting, which they refer to as “spring battles”, in F. polyctena Forst. They suggested that the battles * Department of Zoology, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland. INTER-NEST BATTLES OF FORMICA LUGUBRIS 297 occur due to the increasing encounters between workers from neighbouring nests during the “‘exploratory phase April/May” of foraging. There does not appear to be any reported case of inter-nest fighting in F. lugubris. During field work in connection with an ecological study of F. lugubris (Breen 1976), two observations were made of “spring battles’’ in different years. Both occurred at the same site in Moore’s Wood, South Tipperary, Irish Grid R 93 28 (figure 1). Two nests, A (basal diameter 0.82 m.) and B (basal diameter 1.09 m.) were located 70 m. apart. Both were mature nests which produced alatae in 1973. Their territories were separated by a stream which dries out in summer. On 27.v.1973, dead ants were being transported towards each nest from a fighting area 0.04 m.”, located 19 m. frem nest A. On 1.vi.1973, “normal” foraging was in progress, and the routes from both nests did not approach the fighting area. On 18.v.1974, both nests were again observed in battle at 17.30 (air temperature 12.5°C.). On this occasion foragers from nest B had reached nest A, the surface of which was now the fighting area, and dead ants were being transported back to nest B. Observation along the route connecting the two nests suggested that activity was greatest near nest B— possibly due to the imminent cut-off in foraging activity at the low evening temperature. Two counts of foraging activity were made (cf. figure 1), and gave these results: Count 1 (10 minute count in both directions): To nest A — 47 workers To nest B— 29 + 5 carrying dead ants. Count 2 (5 minute count in both directions): To nest A — 82 + 2 carrying dead ants To nest B—91 + 16 carrying dead ants. There were many (about 100) myrmecophiles running about on the nest surface during the attack (the staphylinids Noto- thecta flavipes Gr., N. anceps Er., and Thiasophila angulata Er. were the most common, and a single specimen of the spider Thyreostenius biovatus O.P.-Camb. was also taken). This is the only occasion I have ever seen such numbers of these myrmecophiles on the outside of the nest. Nest A was totally destroyed by the end of May, and a route from nest B continued past nest-site A during 1974 and 1975. Hence, nest B gained additional territory as a direct result of the attack. The inter-nest battles may be an important territory regulating machanism when nests occur in proximity —as they do locally under certain plantation conditions in Ireland. Furthermore, the timing of the battles is interesting — early in the foraging year when the activity is focused on obtaining protein food (insect prey) for the larvae. One can speculate on the importance of a certain degree of cannibalism at this time of year. In contrast, from the end of May on- wards, about 75% of returning foragers carry honeydew (Breen 1976). Specimens from nest B, labelled “MW 256b” will be placed in the National Museum, Dublin. 298 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XI1/77 Acknowledgements This work was done in the Department of Zoology, University College, Cork, under the supervision of Professor Fergus O’Rourke. I was in receipt of a U.C.C. College Scholarship and Department of Education (Dublin) main- tenance award. References Breen, J. 1976. Studies on Formica lugubris Zetterstedt in Ireland (Hymenoptera, Formicidae). Unpublished Ph.D. thesis, National University of Ireland, 189 pp. DeBruyn, G. J. and Mabelis, A. A. 1972. Predation and aggression as possible regulatory mechanisms in Formica. Ekol. Pol., 20 (10): 93-101. Dobrzanska, J. 1958. Partition of foraging grounds and modes of con- veying information among ants. Acta Biol. exp., Vars., 18: 55-67. Elton, C. 1932. Territory among wood ants (Formica rufa L.) at Picket Hill. J. Anim. Ecol., 1: 69-76. Marikovsky, P. I. 1962. On intraspecific relations of Formica rufa L. Ent. Rev., 1: 23-30. Reznikova, J. 1974. (Mechanism of territorial interaction of colonies in Formica pratensis (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)) (In Russian; English summary). Zool. Zh., 53 (2): 212-223. Stebaev, I. V. and Reznikova, J. I. 1972. Two interaction types of ants living in Steppe ecosystem in south Siberia, U.S.S.R. Ekol. Pol., 20 (11): 103-109. Sudd, J. H. 1967. An introduction to the behaviour of ants. Arnold, London; 200 pp. THE PRESENCE OF THYMELICUS LINEOLA OCHS. IN FAST- BOURNE. — While collecting in the little known locality of Ratton Wood, near Willingdon, Mr. Parsons and I took an example of this species. This is not the first time it has been taken in the Eastbourne area, but the earlier colony has long since vanished owing to the completion of a housing project. No references are given in my literature to this species occurring in the county (except in the Biological Records Centre Provisional Atlas of British Butterflies). — M. HADLEY, 7 Beverington Close, Eastbourne. DIANTHOECIA COMPTA D. & S. (LEP.: HADENIDAE) IN NORTHAMPTONSHIRE. — Following a male specimen of this species being taken in the actinic light trap in my Northampton garden on 8th July, 1975, I have this year taken two further specimens, a male on 9th July and a female on 22nd July, also in my actinic trap in Northampton. I was pleased to present the specimen obtained in 1975 tc the B.M. (Nat. Hist.). All three specimens were in perfect condition, which would seem to preclude their having travelled any long distance, and it seems hardly possible that they could have migrated so far inland. It appears, therefore, that this species has become established as a resident breeding species in Northamptonshire. A correspondent informs me that the larva feeds on sweet william, and that he has taken this species in Norfolk. — S. J. PATEL, The Studio Flat, 13 East Park Parade, Northampton. 299 Central and Northern Spain, May-June 1976 By H:,G. PHELPS* When I had the pleasure of inspecting Lt. Col. Manley’s fine collection of Spanish butterflies, I much admired his series of Lysandra bellargus Rott., particularly ssp. alfacariensis Ribbe which is a large race with particularly well-marked females. Plebejus hesperica Rambur is another interesting butterfly well represented in the collection. In the hope of obtaining specimens of these butterflies and also with the possibility of capturing Jolana iolas Och., I decided on a May-June visit to Spain in 1976. Arriving with my car at Bilbao on the Swedish-Lloyd ferry ship S.S. Patricia on 15th May in a drizzle of rain, I took the coast road towards Santander. At Torrelavega I struck inland to Reinosa where I took the road south over the Puerto de Pozazal where I hoped to find Zerynthia rumina L. A cold wind was blowing over the pass and there were no butterflies on the wing. It was good however to be back in the lush countryside of Northern Spain, and my spirits rose at the sight of a hen harrier gliding low over the road. I later spotted two storks following a plough and picking up titbits turned up by the ploughshares. After negotiating the busy city of Burgos, I camped in a wood near Salas de los Infantes and lay awake to a late hour listening to nightingales and grasshopper warblers. This is a district rich in bird life and in the early morning other warblers joined in the chorus. The next day the weather warmed up and in a flowery field on the other side of Salas I found Aricia morronensis Ribbe, Polyommatus icarus Rott., Philotes baton Berg., Melitaea cinxia L., and Anthocharis cardamines L. Further on towards Soria a clearing in pinewoods near Hontoria del Pinar produced Boloria dia L. and several Everes argiades Pall. The village of Abejar was reached in the evening. It was apparent that this was a late season as the scrub oak was still in bud, and in this usually prolific area, butterflies were scarce. The following day in a field purple with masses of pasque flowers (Pulsatilla vulgaris), the following species were observed: Clossiana euphrosyne L., Cyaniris semiargus Rott., Hamearis lucina L., and a single specimen of Heodes tityrus Poda. After lunch at Abejar I travelled on to Medinaceli and beyond the town I camped in a rough field just off the busy Madrid road. Here I was pleased to find a few fresh specimens of Glaucopsyche alexis Poda flying over a lush growth of bird’s-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus). A fine warm morning saw me on the road at an early hour. I left the Madrid road at Alcala de Henares and made for Arganda where I obtained a room at the only hotel in this busy small town. The pro- prietor’s daughter is married to a young Englishman from * Green Oak, Potters Hill, Crockerton, Warminster, Wilts. 300 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XI1/77 Blandford, Dorset, who kindly took me on a tour of the local bars. During the evening I telephoned Dr. Goémez Bustillo of Madrid who is the co-author with Prof. Fernandez Rubio of two books on Spanish butterflies. He kindly agreed to meet me the following morning at the village of Loeches for a day’s collecting. He promised to show me a secret habitat of J. iolas which sounded very interesting. The doctor turned up in the morning with two charming lady companions all with nets. We went to a hillside where several bushes of bladder senna (Colutea arborescens) were growing. This is the foodplant of I. iolas. The ova are laid on the pods and the larvae feed on the seeds. It was a great thrill to see specimens of this fine blue coming to the bushes. I obtained several males and two females all in good condition. This race has been given the name fidelis Gédmez Bustillo. A few L. bellargus ssp. aidae were also flying and I caught several females which have large orange submarginal spots and in some cases blue markings on the upperside. The habitat is a rather arid hillside with spiny plants and an occasional clump of horseshoe vetch (Hippocrepis comosa), rather dfferent from an English chalk down. I also took specimens of P. hesperica ssp. matildae Gomez Bustillo—another butterfly I had come a long way to see. This species was uncommon and only found near the foodplant — Astragalus. Other species on the wing were Melanargia ines Hoff., M. psyche Hbn., Euphydryas desfon- tainii God.. Melitaea phoebe D. & S., Pontia daplidice Hbn., Melitaea didyma Esp., Pyronia bathseba Fab., and G. alexis. After our enjoyable morning’s collecting, Dr. Bustillo kindly entertained me to a fine meal at a local restaurant. During the next four days I collected in the area of Arganda, Loeches and Campo Real in glorious weather. While exploring a cornfield which appeared to have been abandoned to flowering weeds, I was pleased to see Zegris eupheme Esp., and I caught several specimens of this beautiful fast-flying butterfly in fair condition. Euchloe ausonia Hbn. was also present with a few P. daplidice. In the same area I saw several worn specimens of Z. rumina. A notable capture one after- noon was a L. bellargus f. ceronus—a fine violet blue female. On 27th May, while collecting near Loeches, another collector turned out to be Prof. Fidel Rubio, the co-author with Dr. Bustillo of the books on Spanish butterflies, taking a few hours off from his work at Madrid Hospital. We had a little chat and he kindly invited me to accompany him to another locality. We spent an enjoyable morning collecting and talking about butterflies. On 28th May I left Arganda and went via Chinchon to Aranjuez. Leaving this town I took the wrong road and finished up on a dirt track over the moor through which an almost dried-up river wound its way. Stopping the car to examine some marbled whites I disturbed a colony of black- winged stilts. They appeared to have eggs or young as they CENTRAL AND NORTHERN SPAIN, MAY-JUNE 1976 301 flew around me presenting a curious sight with their long pink legs extending well beyond their tails. I eventually reached the main road and was soon driving through the beautiful and historic city of Toledo. Taking the Torrijos road I had a meal in that small town and reached the village of La Mata in the afternoon. This is the district where Col. Manley and Mrs. Manley collected P. hesperica ssp. galani agenjo in 1968. Col. Manley had advised me to contact Dr. Galan Martin who discovered the race in 1960. I eventually found the doctor who was lamenting a flat car battery. He was pleased to accept my offer to drive him into Torrijos for another battery, and on our return he kindly showed me the P. hesperica site. This consists of two unculti- vated hillsides in an area cultivated with vines, olives and corn. That evening I camped in the shade of some wild olive trees by the side of a mule track. A soft chorus of turtle doves could be heard in this peaceful spot, and at dusk I heard the plaintive cry of a stone curlew. It rained hard all night and prospects did not look very bright in the morning. Although it was still cloudy in the afternoon I decided to have a walk over the P. hesperica site. I soon found the foodplant which is a fine tall-growing species of Astragalus and which was in full bloom with large yellow flowers. Tapping the plants lightly with my net I dis- turbed several P. hesperica and caught two or three specimens in fair condition, although it was obvious that I was a bit late for this race. Here again the butterfly was never far from its foodplant and could now appreciate its Spanish name of “‘Nina del astragalo”’. The following day was hot and sunny and I was able to explore the local hills. Several specimens of P. hesperica were taken but I did not find them at all common. A few P. bellar- gus were also flying, and like Col. Manley I took several obsoleta forms. I also potted up some females on horseshoe vetch (H. comosa). Eggs were laid and the butterflies emerged in September after my return. There were no aberrations except one female of the ceronus form. It is possible that the frequent recurrence of aberrations at La Mata may be the result of environmental influences. The bird life was interesting at La Mata. I disturbed a hawk-like bird from a tree and later identified it from my bird book as a great spotted cuckoo. Several hooppoes and one great grey shrike were also seen. On Ist June I drove eastwards through some rather uninteresting country through Ocana, Tarancon and Cuenca to Una. Beyond this small town I found some good butterfly country where Papilio machaon L., Z. rumina, C. semiargus and Plebicula dorylas D. & S. were flying in good numbers. I camped that evening near Tragacete and it was a delight to hear nightingales singing in a thicket of blackthorn. The following day I collected along the banks of the River Valde- meca and found this a pleasant spot where in the heat of the 302 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15 [ETT day I was able to have a refreshing dip in the clear water. Species caught here included Erebia triaria de Prunner ssp. noguerae Manley and Euphydras aurinia Rott. ssp. beckeri Ledr. On 2nd June I took the Teruel road out of Tragacete which necessitated a rather tortuous climb over the Puerto del Cubillo. At the summit it was much colder and there was not much flying except fresh E. triaria and a few P. bellargus. As I drove along forestry roads further into the Montes Universales, the weather became overcast and put an end to collecting for that day. I spent my coldest night in Spain near Bronchales camping in a wood carpeted with miniature daffodils. In cold windy weather I drove to Albarracin. In the gorges near the town it became warmer and I stopped at a field of sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) and caught several fresh Plebicula thersites Cantener. After shopping in the town, I took the Teruel road and about three miles from the town explored the rocky hills on the north side of the road in my search for P. hesperica. I eventually found the foodplant—a rather inconspicuous species of yellow Astragalus growing amongst clumps of blue-flowered flax (Linum narbonense L.) and other spiny and aromatic plants. Here it probably was that Sheldon found the butterfly in 1913 and he described his delight in discovering this desired species (Entomologist, 46: Si). The following day (5th June) I drove to Moscardon in the Sierra de Albarracin. Later on in July this district, which is well-known to collectors, is alive with butterflies but at this early date only a few E. triaria and Coenonympha iphioides Stdgr. were on the wing. I returned to Albarracin for the afternoon and found several more P. hesperica in the same area as before. A fairly common species here was Cupido sebrus Hbn. During the afternoon a large blue butterfly flew swiftly up the hill, and I was delighted to know that J. iolas was in the vicinity. The next day I had a long climb over the rocky hills east of Albarracin in very hot conditions and had another sighting of J. iolas. This time three flew overhead in line astern but unfortunately out of reach of my net! On 7th June I explored the hills to the west of Albarracin. Anthocharis euphenoides Stdgr. was flying here and I took two females which I have never found to be common in Spain. An interesting species to turn up here in small numbers was Scolitandides orion Pallas. Returning later to the other side of Albarracin I was lucky to take a male and female of J. iolas. This race is described as ssp. thomasi Hemming. In the after- noon I set off for Abejar, near Soria, and after a few stops I reached my old camp site near the village. That night I heard the lovely song of the woodlark for the first time in Spain. A fair number of butterflies were flying in the morning including Plebejus argus L., C. semiargus, A. morronensis and M. phoebe. Continuing north I stopped near S. Leonardo de Yague and found quite a big colony of A. morronensis CENTRAL AND NORTHERN SPAIN, MAY-JUNE 1976 303 along the roadside where its foodplant Storksbill (Erodium cheilanthifolium) was growing in abundance. Passing through Burgos the weather became wet and cold and I put up for the night at a hostal in the village of Soto- palacios and spent a pleasant evening in the bar with some army officers who were on manoeuvres in the district. In the morning I continued my journey north. My only capture en route worth recording was a fresh Plebicula amandus Schr., near the Puerto del Escudo. I eventually reached Reinosa where it appeared to be as cold as when I was there almost three weeks previously. The following day I took the secondary road to Guardo and from there a fairly good road to Riano. Before reaching that small town I collected at Alto de las Portillas where flying with a number of P. dorylas I caught what appears to be a hybrid between either P. dorylas or P. bellargus and Lysandra coridon asturiensis Sag. The upperside of this butterfly looks very much like P. dorylas, but has chequered fringes, while the underside is like L. coridon asturiensis. Passing through Riano I collected in the valley below the Esla Bridge where butterflies were quite numerous along the road verges and included Melitaea trivia D. & S., P. dorylas, L. bellargus and Celastrina argiolas L. I was pleased to catch a fresh male and female of Eumedonia chiron Rott. at this spot. On 11th June I went to a beautiful valley beyond Portilla de la Reina where a friend and I found a wealth of butterflies two years ago. Wild daffodils were still blooming in the fields and butterflies were scarce. In addition to M. trivia and Mellicta parthenoides Kef., I saw a few skippers in the damp meadows. I do not feel sufficiently certain of the identity of the skippers that I caught there and elsewhere to include them in this record. Afterwards I returned to the Esla valley where a worn Nymphalis antiopa L. was taken and released. I was surprised to see two specimens of Parnassius apollo L. at this early date. Another surprise on the same day was the capture of two “blues” that could be specimens of polonus Zeller, the rare hybrid between L. coridon asturiensis and L. bellargus. That afternoon I inspected a dam that had been built and there are ominous signs that Riano will soon be flooded to form a big reservoir. Collectors who have visited the district will be sorry that such a good area will be lost for ever. On 13th June I went to a marshy valley leading off from the Puerto Viejo road. Baron de Worms collected here in 1966 and found a plentiful supply of butterflies (Ent. Rec., 78: 275-283). A few Issoria lathonia L. were on the wing and Argynnis niobe L. was beginning to emerge. I spotted a large C. argiades fitting about in the long grass and on netting it found I had taken a nice striated male. Deciding it was time to move on, I drove up the valley towards the Puerto de San Glorio. This is the home of Erebia palarica Chapman and I found a few fresh males flying with E. triaria near the top of the Pass. E. aurinia ssp. kricheldorffi Collier was also flying 304 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 ye.< VA here in a restricted area. I caught a few of each species until a heavy thunderstorm put a stop to collecting and I returned to the village of Llanaves de la Reina. In the morning the weather was fine again and I returned to the Pass. Just over the top I was pleased to find a colony of Paleochrysophanus hippothoe L. near a stream which trickled down the mountain on the north side of the road. I caught a few fresh specimens including some fine females. Another species flying near the summit was Euchloe simplonia Freyer, also newly emerged. On 15th June I explored the lower slopes of the Pass but did not find any new species. After lunch in Potes I took the winding road through the River Deva gorge and reached the coast town of Laredo in the evening, where I stopped for the night and caught the ferry ship from Bilbao the following day. My total of species excluding skippers was 40, not very impressive, but I was well satisfied with the results of an enjoyable trip. Acknowledgements I would like to express my thanks to Col. Manley and Mrs. Manley, Dr. Gomez Bustillo, Prof. Fidel Rubio and Dr. Galan Martin for their help. References Fernandez-Rubio, F. and Géomez Bustillo, M. R. 1974. Mariposas de la Peninsula Iberia, 2 vols. Manley, W. B. L. and Allcard, H. G. 1970. A Field Guide to the Butterflies and Burnets of Spain. THE CONTINUING SPREAD OF THE BROAD-BORDERED BEE HAWK-MOTH (HEMARIS FUCIFORMIS L.) ly THE NEw FOREST. — Since Dr. Craik’s report (Ent. Rec., 89: 188) of the occurrence of fuciformis in Ashurst in 1976, I have had a reliabie report of its appearance near Lymington in that year. Also, Mr. F. Courtier saw two specimens feeding at wallflower in his garden at Denny Lodge, Lyndhurst earlier this year, and this August my cup has been filled by taking a young larva feeding on honeysuckle in my own garden. — L. W. SicGs, Sungate, Football Green, Minstead, Lyndhurst, Hants. [This moth is subject to very marked periods of scarcity and it would be interesting to hear of any other recent reports of it, either for Hampshire or elsewhere. Until recently, fuciformis seems to have been at a very low level for a number of years but in 1976 it showed an appreciable increase and in that year Mr. Siggs was actually the first ever to record the occurrence in Britain of a second generation of this moth Gn Ent. Rec., 88: 270), which was followed by two more reports of a second brood in 1976, by Dr. Craik (Craik, loc. cit.) and by Mr. Chipperfield (in Ent. Rec., 89: 249). — J.M.C.-H.] CORRIGENDA On page 95 (antea) line 7 down, for “‘of”’ read “‘to”’. On page 223 (antea) line 19 down, delete ‘“‘third’’. 305 Silpha carinata Herbst (Col.: Silphidae) Confirmed as a British Breeding Species By Davip R. NAsH* In an earlier paper (Nash, 1975) Silpha carinata Herbst was re-instated in the British list on the basis of a single specimen captured in April 1974 on the edge of a wooded area near Salisbury, Wiltshire, and a table was given to facili- tate the separation of the species from S. tristis Illiger. In an attempt to prove that S. carinata was resident in the locality and refute any suggestion that the single example found was merely a casual immigrant, the site of the original capture was visited on 29th October, 1975. As might be expected after a lapse of 18 months, the straw heap which had contained the single example of carinata had completely rotted down and now supported a flourishing bed of stinging nettles. Grubbing at the roots of these proved painfully unproductive and searching at the roots of vegetation nearby, and under stones, was fruitless. The locality was not visited again until 12th August, 1976. On this occasion, with the temperature in the mid-80’s Fahren- heit and drought conditions prevailing, nine pitfall traps made from plastic beakers (8 cm. deep x 7 cm. aperture) were set up around the site of the straw heap within a circle of about 20 m. radius. Each trap was baited with just enough fresh fish to cover its base to a depth of about 1 cm. In addition, small pieces of fish were placed in cavities excavated under large flnts, and entrance holes allowing access to the bait were dug out of the turf around the stones. Searching in this area once again proved unproductive as did a day-long diligent search of adjacent areas. However, just as I was completing my planned collecting circuit for the day and was about 3 km. from the straw site, I came upon a narrow, mown ride on the woodland edge with the cut vegetation lying where it had fallen. Turning over the relatively dry vegetation quickly revealed two teneral examples of Silpha carinata on the slightly damp ground beneath, together with cast Silphid larval skins. The desiccated remains of three other adults (two of them partly eaten) were found lying in the open on the mown surface of the ride. Returning to the locality on 16th August, I found that four carinata had been attracted to the baited pitfall traps. Three were alive but the fourth was dead, its abdomen having been eaten—presumably by the other insects attracted to the fish. Other Coleoptera found in the traps included Thanato- philus sinuatus (F.), Nicrophorus vespilloides Herbst, N. vespillo (L.), N. investigator Zett., Ontholestes murinus (L.), Creophilus maxillosus (L.) and numerous Histerids. A single example of Silpha tristis was found near fish bait placed under a polythene fertiliser sack. One carinata had been attracted to fish bait under a flint and a further example was observed under a non-baited flint close by. Further searching under the * 266 Colchester Road, Lawford, near Manningtree, Essex, CO11 2BU. 306 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XI1/77 now very dry and dusty grass in the mown ride which had yielded examples of carinata four days earlier failed to turn up any more examples, but a single specimen was found under a stone further along the ride. A further visit was made to the locality on 12th April, 1977 to try to obtain further data concerning the life-cycle of the species. No carinata were found under stones in the straw heap area, but a male and female, both with damaged legs, were discovered in moss in a clearing on the woodland edge in a new | km. N.G. square. The beetle is thus recorded from three adjacent 1 km. squares. (A single S. tristis was also found in the moss.) | The capture of these two examples in the Spring, plus my original specimen (also found in April), would appear to confirm that carinata overwinters as an adult as suggested by Heymons et al. (loc. cit.). The presence of teneral examples in mid-August also supports the latter author’s finding that the new generation of carinata emerges as adults of the old generation die off in July and August. Facilities away from home did not allow precise and detailed experiments to be carried out to investigate the food preferences of S. carinata. The summer specimens retained, however, were placed in individual plastic containers with grass cuttings, etc. and were supplied with a selection of animal and plant foodstuffs, only one food item at a time (apart from the grass) being placed in each container. The following were eaten: a piece of runner bean, a blackcurrant leaf, a dead blowfly maggot, a dead earthworm, and a dead Tipulid larva. Live maggots did not produce much response from the beetles when introduced into their containers, but one live maggot left with a beetle was consumed, only the skin being found a day or so later. Dead, squashed maggots appeared in almost every case to initiate immediate feeding. If a beetle was touched when resting or during feeding, it usually raised its abdomen and often emitted a brown fluid from the anus. Such disturbance often resulted in thanatosis. These meagre and inadequate data do not appear to sup- port the findings of Heymons ef al. (1926-33) who stated that S. carinata would only feed upon flesh. (Unfortunately, I have been unable to study this work in the original.) Available data would seem to suggest that, while a few of our Silphidae are exclusively predaceous, e.g. Dendroxena (=Xylodrepa) and Ablattaria, fhe majority will probably often feed as adults on both animal or plant material. Even in the genus Nicrophorus in which most adults of our species (apart from N. vespilloides) have been shown to feed almost exclusively on carrion or Dipterous larvae, there are occasional exceptions. Three speci- mens of N. vespillo (L.), for example, have been reported as feeding immediately and actively for three days upon the leaves and buds of Cichorium endivia L. in preference to meat which was readily available at the same time (Leclercq, 1954). The presence of carinata in fish-baited pitfall traps could indicate only that the beetle seems to be especially attracted to rotten SILPHA CARINATA HERBST (COL.: SILPHIDAE) 307 flesh or that it is particularly active on the surface of open ground and readily falls into such traps. Examination of the specimens of S. carinata obtained, indicates that all save one of the characters presented in the table in my original paper (loc. cit., 286) hold good. It was stated there on the basis of the then unique British specimen, that the middle elytral keel was reflexed for its last mm. to run parallel to the suture. This was found to occur in only about half the carinata subsequently examined. In the others, the keel tended to become evanescent towards the elytral apex with little, or no, indication of any continuation parallel to the suture. , Mr. A. A. Allen has very kindly drawn my attention to an additional important character concerning the elytral keels which I had overlooked. In carinata, the inner and outer keels are almost equally strongly continued to the elytral base; the middle keel, however, does not reach so far forward and becomes gradually weaker in the scutellary region, eventually fading out entirely before the elytral base. In tristis, all three keels are more-or-less equally strongly continued to the base of the elytra. It was also noted (ibid., 287) that the scutellum of the beetle studied was punctured only in its. middle part and was smooth and shining—particularly towards its upper corners. Study of further material indicates that the scutellum usually tends to be rather thickly punctured over most of its surface. However, in all examples of carinata studied, the sides forming the apex of the scutellum ‘V’ are convex, unpunctured and shining, and border a distinct apical depression. In fristis, the sides of the scutellum at its apex are not markedly convex, usually sparingly punctured, and there is either no apical depression, or else only a very shallow one. A further useful character not remarked upon in my original paper, is afforded by the elytral sculpturation. In carinata the punctures are large and crater-like and the surface between them is uneven. Each puncture has at its base a distinct, shining, thorn-like tubercle which bears a seta. In tristis the punctures are smaller and shallower, notched, and with the surface between them relatively smooth and even. The punctures bear tubercles with setae, but these are smaller and less prominent than in carinata. Specimens of carinata are to be presented to the British Museum (Nat. Hist.) and Manchester Museum. Summary (a) Further examples of Silpha carinata Herbst are reported from Wiltshire proving that the insect is a breeding British species. (b) The feeding habits of carinata and other Silphidae are briefly discussed. (c) Additional notes on the separation of S. carpinata from S. tristis Illiger are provided. 308 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XI1/77 References Balduf, W. V. 1935. The Bionomics of Entomophagous Coleoptera. Reprint 1969. E. W. Classey, Hampton. Heymons, R. et al. 1926-33. Studien uber die Lebensercheinungen der Silphini. Zeits. Morph. Okol. Tiere., 6-28 (quoted in Balduf (op. cit.): 68, 74-5. Leclercq, J. 1954. Phytophagy among Necrophorus vespillo (L.) (Col., Silphidae). Ent. mon. Mag., 90: 240. Nash, D. R. 1975. Silpha carinata Herbst—a remarkable re-discovery in British Coleoptera. Ent. Rec. J. Var., 87: 285-8. TRICHOPTERYX POLYCOMMATA D. & S. IN EASTBOURNE. — Upon the 12th and 14th of April, 1977, in the company of Mr. S. Pooles, I investigated some large stretches of privet near Friston Forest. Our visits were repayed with a combined total of 16 specimens seen, several ot which were captured. This is the first time this species has been taken in Eastbourne since the records in Adkin (1930). — M HaAbDLeEy, 7 Beverington Close, Eastbourne. WALL BUTTERFLY, PARARGE MEGERA L. IN WEST YORK- SHIRE. — On 8th July, 1977, whilst on holiday near Hepton- stall above Hebden Bridge in Yorkshire, I visited Walshaw Dean where three reservoirs supply water to Halifax. At a spot below the reservoirs and about 900 feet above sea level, there is a little two-arched stone bridge over the Alcomden Water reminiscent of pack-horse days. It was a short distance below here beside the path which forms part of the Pennine Way that I observed a Wall Butterfly, Pararge megera L. It settled on the grass and I was able to see it from about two feet distance and note that its forewings were slightly chipped. The grid reference was SD 955320. As a boy I lived at Tod- morden and often collected lepidoptera in the area but I never encountered this species. Walshaw Dean nestles below Withins and Haworth Moor of Bronté fame and it was with some nostalgia I revisited it after 45 years absence. My first visit had been on 19th July, 1932. On that occasion I walked from Todmorden by way of Whirlaw, Limpus Field, Chisley, Jack Bridge, Gorple and Blakedean where I looked into the little Baptist chapel graveyard and then continued up Walshaw Dean. It was while sitting on the twin-arched bridge over the Alcomden Water that I was favoured with the visits of two Pied Wagtails, a pair of Water Voles and a swiftly flying Kingfisher — an experience which I began to think was a dream until today I unearthed an olcé notebook and found the written record. This year (1977) I found Wild Thyme growing on the roadside and at Blakedean there were Gold- finches, a pair of Whinchats and the forewing of a male Northern Eggar, Lasiocampa quercus ssp. callunae, which may have fallen victim to the Whinchats. The Small Heath, Coeno- nympha pamphilus L. was on the wing in grassy spots near Blakedean and more than one Grey Mountain Carpet, Entephria caesiata D. & S., started out from its rocky resting place. But one wonders if other observers have noted the Wall in these upland parts of West Yorkshire? — ALBERT G. Lone, Hancock Museum, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. 309 Lough Derrygeeha, Co. Clare, a New Locality for Cyrnus insolutus McLachlan (Trichoptera: Polycentropodidae) By J. P. O’CONNOR* The caddisfly Cyrnus insolutus McLachlan was recently collected at Lough Derrygeeha, Co. Clare, Ireland (grid reference R155563). In Britain, this species is only known from Blelham Tarn in the English Lake District (Hickin, 1967). It was first discovered there in July 1942 when adults were found along a few yards of rocky shore shaded by trees. They occurred mainly on rocks covered with moss at the water’s edge or at the roots of grasses growing close to or in the water (Kimmins, 1942). C. insolutus still inhabits this tarn and the larvae have been described by Edington (1964). An addi- tional Irish specimen has been taken in the Killarney area of Co. Kerry (O’Connor and Wise, in press). Lough Derrygeeha is a small pond surrounded by dense vegetation including coarse grasses and Phragmites. Juncus, Typha, Equisetum and water-lilies (Nymphaeceae) are also common and alders (Alnus glutinosa (L.)) line part of the shore. In the littoral region, the substratum between the plants is composed mainly of decaying plant debris. When the pond was first visited on the 8.vii.73, the thick cover prevented the efficient utilisation of a hand-net. In an effort to collect material, a section of vegetation was sprayed with a commercial aerosol containing pybuthrin. Only a very restricted area near the water was subjected to the chemical however in order to prevent undue damage to any associated fauna. Within a short period after application, caddisflies emerged from amongst the roots and stems. These individuals mainly attempted to climb up the plants or to take flight and they were readily captured. A few became trapped in the surface film of the water. Altogether nine males of C. insolutus were collected. A larva was obtained in a littoral sample taken on the same day and it closely resembles Edington’s (loc. cit.) description. Minor differences exist in that there is some lightening of pigment on the genae adjacent to the constriction of the frontoclypeus, but otherwise the markings are quite distinct from those of C. flavidus McLachlan larvae (Edington, tn. litt). On the 25.i11.77, an attempt was made to collect additional larvae. Since a search of the littoral area failed to reveal any specimens, substrate samples were taken and subsequently live- sorted. This procedure yielded a total of six C. insolutus larvae, all of which have similar markings to those described above. The immature stages of Holocentropus picicornis (Stephens) and H. dubius (Rambur) were also obtained. Presumably these animals either spin their nets between the living plants or attach them to the debris. Klingstedt (1937) considers that the scattered occurrence of C. insolutus throughout the western section of continental * National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street, Dublin 2. 310 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XI1/77 Europe from Fennoscandia to Iberia suggests an old specialised branch of Cyrnus on the way to becoming extinct. It is interesting therefore that this caddisfly has now turned up in Ireland. On the continent, it has been recorded from ponds and lakes (Nybom, 1960). Since Ireland abounds in these habitats, it is hoped that this unusual insect will be taken at many more Irish stations. Voucher specimens have been deposited in the National Museum of Ireland and in the British Museum (Natural History). Acknowledgements The greater part of this work was carried out in the Department of Zoology, University College, Dublin, and I wish to thank Professor C. F. Humphries and Dr. J. J. Bracken for their interest and encouragement. I am also very grateful to Dr. J. M. Edington for confirming my identifications, Mary Norton for her help with field-work and the Department of Fisheries, Dublin, for providing me with a Fisheries Science Studentship. References Edington, J. M. 1964. The taxonomy of the British polycentropid larvae (Trichoptera). Proc. zool. Soc., Lond., 143: 281-300. Hickin, N. E. 1967. Caddis larvae. Larvae of the British Trichoptera. Hutchinson, London. Kimmins, D. E. 1942. Cyrnus insolutus McL. (Trichoptera), new to Britain. Entomologist, 75: 66-68. Klingstedt, H. 1937. A taxonomical survey of the genus Cyrnus Steph., including the description of a new species, with some remarks on the principles of taxonomy. Acta Soc. Fauna Flora fenn., 60: 573- 598. Nybom, O. 1960. List of Finnish Trichoptera. Fauna Fenn., 6: 1-56. O’Connor, J. P. and Wise, E. J. (in press). The Trichoptera of the Killarney lakes. Proc. R. Ir. Acad. Notes and Observations CurIoUS BEHAVIOUR OF THE GREY DAGGER (ACRONICTA PSI L.) OR DARK DaGGER (A. TRIDENS D. & S.). — A friend, Mr. M. K. Swales, the biology master at Denstone College, Uttoxeter, Staffs., telephoned me recently with an account of the behaviour of a moth he and his family had noticed in the garden and I asked him to write it down for possible inclusion in The Record. The moth I had no difficulty in identifying from his description as A. psi—or, of course, A. tridens. Mr. Swales writes, 10th July, 1977, as follows: “This afternoon, we observed what you confirm to be a grey dagger moth behaving in a most interesting way on the south-facing wall of our house, which is built of two colours of sandstone — “white” (grey in the weathered state) and “red” (pink). When first seen, the moth was on grey stone and remarkably well camouflaged. However, the wall, being in full sunlight at between 3.00 and 4.00 p.m., was presumably too warm for the moth to stay in one place, so it moved quite NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS 3h frequently (every two or three minutes) and then remained motionless and camouflaged as before. However, before long it moved off the grey stone on to a pink one where it was at once more conspicuous. On this stone, it moved more fre- quently (about every half minute) and was quite soon off that stone on to the mortar between it and the next red one where it remained stationary for the longer period of time; but by further intermittent movement it reached a shaded place, still on the mortar and well camouflaged, where it remained motionless and we left it. We observed all this from a distance of over a metre and therefore trust the moth’s movement was in no way influenced by our presence.” Mr. Swales adds that he wonders if these observations indicate an ability on the part of the moth to detect when it is camouflaged and when it is not, and regrets he had no means of measuring the surface temperature of the stone. — R. G. WARREN, Wood Ridings, 32 Whitmore Road, Trentham, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 8AP. SOME LESS COMMON MOTHS TAKEN IN CAERNARVONSHIRE. — The following moths were among the less common species taken by operating a Robinson mercury-vapour trap almost nightly during the period June 1973 to December 1975 at Capelulo, Gwynedd (at the foot of the Sychnant Pass). Map. ref.: 23/745767. Altitude: 250 ft. Vice-county: 49 (Caerns.). If only one or two individuals of a species were taken during this period, this is indicated by (1) or (2). Two asterisks denote first record for Caerns. One asterisk denotes rarely recorded in Caerns. *Polyploca ridens (Fab.) (1); Rhodometra sacraria (L.); Larentia clavaria (Haw.) (1); Coenotephria salicata ssp. laten- taria (Curt.); Triphosa dubitata (L.) (1); Perizoma bifaciata (Haw.) (1); Venusia cambrica (Curt.); *Lobophora halterata (Hufn.) (1); Acasis viretata (Hiibn.) (2); Abraxas sylvata (Scop.); Selenia lunularia (Hiibn.); Menophra abruptaria (Thunb.) (1); Dyscia fagaria (Thunb.); Diacrisia sannio (L.) (1); Agrotis trux (Hiibn.); Eugnorisma depuncta (L.); Stand- fussiana lucernea (L.) (1); Graphiphora augur (Fab.) (1); Diarsia dahlii (Hubn); Xestia ashworthii (Doubl.); **X. rhom- boidea (Esp.) (6); X. castanea (Esp.); X. agathina (Dup.); Naenia typica (L.); Hadena confusa (Hufn.); Panolis flammea (D. & S.) (1); Dasypolia templi (Thunb.); *Parastichtis suspecta (Hubn.); *Xanthia gilvago (D. & S.); *Mormo maura (L.) (at sugar); Cosmia affinis (L.) (2); *Apamea characterea (Hibn.) (2); A. scolopacina (Esp.) (1); Rhizedra lutosa (Hiibn.); Auto- grapha bractea (D. & S.); *Syngrapha interrogationis (L.) (1). The following is a similar list for the grounds of the Zoology Department, University College of North Wales, Bangor, Gwynedd for the period June to October 1974. Map tef.: 23/577719. Altitude: 100 ft. Vice-county: 49. **Tethea ocularis (L.) (1); Coenotephria salicata ssp. latentaria (Curt.); Semiothisa wauaria (L.) (1); Agrotis trux (Hubn.); Standfussiana lucernea (L.) (1); Graphiphora augur 312 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15 (ST (Fab.); Xestia agathina (Dup.); Naenia typica (L.); Acronicta leporina (L.) (2); A. alni (L.) (1); Apamea ophiogramma (Esp.) oe Rhizedra lutosa (Htbn.); Autographa bractea (D. & S.) The following is a similar list for Treborth Gardens, near Menai Bridge, Gwynedd for the period February-May 1976. Map ref.: 23/553711. Altitude: 100 ft. Vice-county: 49 (Caerns. ). Selenia lunularia (Hubn.); Panolis flammea (D. & S.); Orthosia miniosa (D. & S.); **O. populeti (Fab.) (1); Dasypolia templi (Thunb.). Thanks are due to Mrs. S. Mowday who operated the trap at Capelulo and to Mr. H. N. Michaelis who assisted with identification and advised on previous occurrences. — Dr. J. C. A. Craik, Dept. of Oceanography, The University, Southampton. CHLOROCLYSTIS CHLOERATA (MAB.) IN SOUTH WESTMOR- LAND AND NorTH LANCASHIRE. — Reading of the occurrence of C. chloerata in various parts of the country, especially in the neighbouring county of Yorkshire, there seemed to be no reason why with the magnificent display of sloe blossom in South Westmorland and North Lancashire, the species should not occur here. Beating the masses of sloe blossom near Yelland, a few yards on the Lancashire side of the border with Westmorland on 4th May, 1976, sure enough produced seven pug larvae, which if they were not C. rectangulata could only be C. chloerata. From these only four moths emerged, all on 9th June, 1976. Three of these escaped while I boxed the odd one, which I duly set. As this specimen resembled one which I took at m.v. at Beetham, South Westmorland, 3rd June, 1969, and one taken at Askham Bog, Yorkshire, 5th June, 1959, I decided after all it was C. rectangulata. On 4th May, 1977, in company with Mr. Arthur Watson of St. Annes-on-Sea, five of these larvae were again beaten out of sloe blossom, this time in Black Tom Lane, Wither- slack, Westmorland, and on 7th May I took three more from the same blackthorns as last year, near Yelland in N. Lancs. On 11th May, Mr. Watson and I took a further three of these larvae from the now fading sloe blossom, near Silver- dale, Lancs. The moths from these emerged 5th to 12th June and were exactly similar to the 1976 specimens. On the occasion of the Lancashire and Cheshire Ento- mological Society outing on 9th July, which took place here, I showed these specimens to Mr. Peter Crow, Dr. Neville Birkett and Mr. Ian Rutherford, and it was agreed that they were indeed all C. chloerata. Incidentally, two further speci- mens of this species appeared at my m.v. trap here at Beetham on 6th and 17th July, 1977, which in past years I have recorded as C. rectangulata. — J. Briccs, Frimley House, Deepdale Close, Slackhead, Beetham, Cumbria. NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS 313 More Hazarps OF Motu Huntinc — Mr. Hadley’s item in last month’s Record on the ‘“‘Hazards of Moth Hunting” reminded me of the many brushes I have had with the police, generally friendly and often humorous. Here is one. Bernard Kettlewell and I were collecting in the Ham Street woods. This was many years ago, before they became well known and collectors frequent. It was also before the era of m.v. lights. We pulled the car off on to one of the wide grass verges and spread a sheet in front of the headlights and over some grass tussocks to give a good reflection. We also sugared in the wood. While doing cur sugaring round we heard a speeding car and police siren; then another; then a third. Not taking much notice, we completed our round and returned to the road. The three police cars were round our car. The headlights were off and the sheet was gone. At that moment the local bobby also arrived on his motor bike. What had happened was as follows. A boy bicycling home had passed the car with its headlights blazing, and after a cursory examination, had hurried on to tell his father the following story: “There has been a terrible car accident in the woods. The car is right off the road. There is a body in front of the car covered with a sheet. The driver has. run away leaving the headlights burning.”’ This information produced an area police alert. We explained to the police what i: was all about. They told us, with much laughter, the information they had received. Only the local bobby was annoyed “‘misuse of head- lights, serious danger to other traffic’. After all, the others had been on night patrol, but he had doubtless been dragged out of bed. — R. P. DEMUTH, Watercombe House, Oakridge, Stroud, Glos., 12.viii.77. REMARKABLE NUMBERS OF MOTHS AT LIGHT NEAR ST. Davips, PEMBROKE, JuLY 1977. — Mr. J. L. Messenger and I visited Whitesands Bay, some two miles north of St. Davids, in late August 1975 with fairly good results so that we thought of paying a further visit earlier in the season. We reached this locality on 9th July, 1977 and put up in the same chalet belonging to the Whitesands Bay Hotel as on the previous occasion. The site overlooks a low cliff on the edge of the wide bay just south of St. David’s Head and our m.v. trap was placed in the same position as before. The weather was calm and the wind easterly. We were amazed on this first night to find a vast concourse of insects after the lean catches we had had in Surrey. Every carton was filled to capacity and the whole catch must have weighed several pounds. By far the largest proportion of the 2,300 individuals comprising 43 species of the macros was Agrotis exclamationis L. (72%) and Apamea monoglypha L. (22%). This was to be the pattern on the eight subsequent nights with a total of 700 on the 16th when the wind changed to the west and on the last three nights the visitation was minimal. Altogether we estimated a 314 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XI1/77 total of nearly 12,000 insects at the trap covering 12 nights and comprising 98 species of macros. Of the four species of Sphingids by far the most numerous was Deilephila porcellus L. There were quite a lot of Arctia caja L. and Malacosoma neustria L., with a fair number of both the Ermines. Among the noctuids possibly the most plentiful was Cucullia umbratica L. Hadene lepida Esp. appeared in a light brown form in some plenty with a remarkable assortment of Ceramica pisi L. and some fine Agrotis trux Hubn. Of the less frequent noctuids we saw, mostly in single specimens, were Hadena barrettii Double- day, Apamea furva D. & S., Cucullia asteris D. & S., Plusia bractea D. & S., P. festucae L. and several Leucania putrescens Hiubn. Mr. Stewart Coxey, who joined us just before we left on 20th July, said shortly afterwards he had at light a few Plusia chryson Esp. Geometers were distinctly scarce with a few Scopula promutata Guen., Lygris mellinata F., L. pyraliata D. & S., Pseudoterpna pruinata Hufn. and Ortholitha plum- baria F. — C. G. M. DE Worms, Three Oaks, Shores Road, Horsell, Surrey. AN UNusuAL LOCALITY FOR MICROTHRIX SIMILELLA (ZINC.). — I have had the good fortune to record at light four specimens of this conspicuously white-banded oak-feeding Phycitid from four widely separated localities this year. Three of the records were from areas of old-established oak woodland and were: Denny Wood, New Forest, Hampshire on 18th June (B.E.N.H.S. field meeting); Hoads Wood, near Ashford, Kent on 29th June and Bisley Camp, near Woking, Surrey on 23rd July. The other record however was from Westbere marsh, near Canterbury, Kent (also on a B.E.N.HLS. field meeting) on 9th July. This is an extensive area of reed marsh- land bordering flooded gravel pits beside the river Stour. The main trees were various Salix species and the only oaks observed were saplings. — P. J. JEwess, 378 London Road, Aylesford, Kent. A NOTE ON BREEDING THE DEATH’S HEAD HAWKMOTH (ACHERONTIA ATROPOS L.). — With reference to Dr. Neville L. Birkett’s very interesting article (in Ent. Rec., 89: 152), I would like to comment on his experience with A. atropos L., since I have reared well over one hundred specimens of atropos during my annual visits to Cape Town, with a failure rate of less than 1%. Regarding the free-lying pupa mentioned by Dr. Birkett, and the failure of the moth from this to expand its wings, I think the reason for this was probably that it had failed to free itself of the pupa case in time. This problem can be avoided by covering free-lying pupae with about an inch thick layer of wood wool (kept moist) and the moth, whilst penetrating this, gets rid of the pupa case. Larvae ready to pupate should be provided with damp soil, about four inches deep, in which they will construct the pupal chamber (the inside of which is about the size of a NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS BY small hen’s egg with walls about half an inch thick). The emerging moth gets rid of most of the pupal skin while still breaking out of the chamber, the empty skin being invariably found well below the surface of the soil. It may be of interest that Dr. F. W. Gess, of the Albany Museum, Grahamstown, Cape, S. Africa, informs me that the following plants upon which I have found atropos larvae feeding, are new host plants for this species in S. Africa: Fraxinus americana L. (Oleaceae); Solanum giganteum Jacq (Solanaceae); Nuxia floribunda (Loganiaceae); Cardiospermum hirsutum (Sapindaceae); Jasminum multipartitum (Oleaceae). — H. L. O’HEFFERNAN, c/o Maye House, Chillington, Kings- bridge, S. Devon. EUPITHECIA PHOENICEATA (RAMBUR), ETAINIA DECENTELLA (H.-S.), ESPERIA OLIVIELLA (FAB.), HOMOEOSOMA NEBULELLA (D. & S.), BUCCULATRIX THORACELLA (THUNB.) AND OTHER NoTABLE MOTHS IN THE WINCHESTER District. — Although 1977 has in general been a poor year, there have been a few good things appearing in this area, notably a single specimen of Eupithecia phoeniceata (Rambur), which came to the garden m.v. trap on the night of 6th/7th July. Besides being a new Winchester record, this seems an unusually early one. Other new or unusual species for this neighbourhood include: Etainia decentella (H.-S.) (conf. D. W. H. ffennell) about 10 at m.v. 2nd July and later, also one mine in sycamore key; the rediscovery of Bembecia scopigera (Scop.) (Six-belted Clearwing) near Farley Mount, a locality given by Fassnidge; Esperia oliviella (Fab.) one in woods just outside Winchester on 15th July; Microthrix similella (Zinck.) seven at m.v. between 7th and 19th July; Homoeosoma nebulella (D. & S.) one on 17th July at m.v. (a specimen caught in 1976 is also now confirmed as this species); [daea straminata (Borkh.) (Plain Wave) one at m.v. 2nd August; Meganola albula (D. & S.) (Kent Black Arches) one at m.v. 18th August; and Conistra rubiginea (D. & S.) (Dotted Chestnut) one at m.v. 23rd March. An interesting record from last year now con- firmed is a single Bucculatrix thoracella (Thunb.) taken at m.v. 6th June, 1976. — Col. D. H. STERLING, 2 Hampton Lane, Winchester, Hants. [These appear to be the first con- firmed records for Hampshire of EF. oliviella (Fab.) and B. thoracella (Thunb.). — J.M.C.-H.] Two IMPORTANT BUTTERFLY RECORDS FROM GREECE. — On 25th June, 1977, two male and one female Strymonidia w-album Knoch were captured just above the village of Peristera, on Mt. Chelmos in the Peloponnese, at an altitude of about 1,300 m. The butterflies were found in rather open country, feeding on the flowers of Viburnum bushes. This is the first record of this species from the Peloponnese and constitutes the southernmost record of the species from the Balkans. On 29th July, 1977, during a joint expedition with John Brown of Sutton, England, to Mt. Kaimakchalan (Voras Mts.), 316 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/2/77 on the Greco-Yugoslavian border, a single female Thecla betulae Linnaeus was captured at an altitude of 1,500 m., inside the forest zone. This record of betulae is the first ever from Greece and is the southernmost known from Europe. — JOHN G. CouTsis, 4 Glykonos Street, Athens 139, Greece. NYMPHALIS ANTIOPA L. IN SCOTLAND IN 1977 AND A FURTHER RECORD FOR 1976. — Two further records of the Camberwell Beauty may be added to those listed in J. M. Chalmers-Hunt’s papers (Ent. Rec., 99: 89-105, 248-249). On the 5th July, 1977, while examining a local population of Maniola jurtina (L.) on a railway embankment in Dunblane, Perthshire, I noticed the slow moving shadow of a large flying insect travelling along the ground to my left. Looking up I saw the spectacular shape of a very worn N. antiopa flying steadily at about 15 feet above the ground in a westerly direction. It disappeared over the top of some sallows. The time was 11.45 a.m. On the 24th July, 1976, while watching Quercusia quercus (L.) fly round an oak at the side of Loch Ard, near Aberfoyle, Perthshire, a specimen of antiopa landed briefly on the tree, flying off out of sight in a few seconds. — GEORGE THOMSON, Humblesknow, Ramoyle, Dunblane, Perthshire, FK15 OBA. A FURTHER RECORD OF A CAMBERWELL BEAUTY IN WORCESTERSHIRE AFTER HIBERNATION. — On 22nd May, 1977, Mr. Jack Oliver, a very observant countryman of Quarry Cottage, Crews Hill, Alfrick, watched a Nymphalis antiopa L. settle twice low down on some bushes by some oaks on a ridge near Crews Hill. — J. E. GREEN, 25 Knoll Lane, Pool- brook, Malvern, Worcs. LIMNEPHILUS HIRSUTUS Pic. (TRICHOPTERA: LIMNE- PHILIDAE) IN KENT. — Two specimens of this species came to m.v.l. at Sandwich Bay on the night of 14.viii.1977. This appears to be the first record for Kent. I am grateful to Dr. Ian Watkinson for their identification. — T. W. HarMan, Little Oaks, Church Lane, Westbere, Canterbury, Kent. NYMPHALIS POLYCHLOROS L. IN N.W. KENT, 1975. — Mr. J. H. Hider, a keen and active local naturalist and, I have every reason to believe, an accurate observer, lately gave me a list of species noted by him in this area which, to my sur- prise, included the Large Tortoiseshell. It was early in June 1975, in Maryon Wilson Park, Charlton; he tells me he had a good view of the butterfly and is in no doubt concerning its identity. In the absence of further sightings, it would seem to have been only a straggler. It should, however, perhaps be mentioned that there were then a number of elms in the park (now sadly reduced by disease). For possible past occurrences in the district one would probably have to go back to the extraordinarily favourable period of 1946-8, during which polychloros was recorded two or three times at Lewisham, not far away (cf. Chalmers-Hunt, 1961, Lepidoptera of Kent: 70). — A. A. ALLEN, 49 Montcalm Road, Charlton, London, SE7 8QG. Frederick William Frohawk A memoir by his daughter Valezina Bolingbroke Sixteen pages with three photographs and the Front Cover embellished by a hitherto unpublished and delightful colour plate of Erebia aethiops (Esper) -— The Scotch Argus—which was sketched in the field and dedicated to his daughter when a small child. This delightful and personal record will appeal to a wide audience. Price £1.00 (including postage) 100 numbered and signed proofs (No. 21 — 120) of the plate at £5.00 each post free are to be made available to purchasers of the ‘““Memoir”’ on a Strictly “first come, first served’’ basis. Published by: E. W. CLASSEY LIMITED Park Road, Faringdon Oxon, SN7 7DR England ENTOMOLOGICAL CABINETS We are the sole manufacturers of ‘HILL’? 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TUTT on 15th April, 1890) The following gentlemen act as Honorary Consultants to the magazine: Orthoptera: D. K. Mc E. Kevan, Ph.D., B.Sc., F.R.E.S.; Coleoptera: A. A. ALLEN, B.Sc.; Diptera: E. C. M. d’AssIS-FONSECA, F.R.E.S. TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS — All material for the TEXT of the magazine as well as books for review must be sent to the EDITOR at St. Teresa, 1 Hardcourts Close, West Wickham, Kent. ADVERTISEMENTS, EXCHANGES and WANTS to: E. H. WILD, L.Inst.Biol., 112 Foxearth Road, Selsdon, Croydon, Surrey, CR2 8EF. Specimen copies supplied by Mr. Wild on payment of 60p or sterling equivalent which will be taken into account if the person in question becomes a full subscriber, plus 10p postage. Enquiries regarding Back Numbers, Volumes and Sets to: P. A. SOKO- LOFF, 4 Steep Close, Orpington, Kent, BR6 6DS. Changes of address to: 8. N. A. JACOBS, 54 Hayes Lane, Bromley, Kent BR2 9EE. Subscriptions should be sent to the Treasurer, P. J. RENSHAW, 53 Links Road, West Wickham, Kent BR4 0QN, England. REPRINTS: 25 copies, taken straight from the magazine are sent gratis to contributors of articles; these may contain extraneous matter. More formal reprints from re-set type may still be had at cost price, and orders for these should be given, at the latest, with the return to the Editor of the corrected proof. ILLUSTRATIONS are inserted on condition that the AUTHOR DEFRAYS THE COST. Contributors are requested not to send us Notes or Articles which they are sending to other magazines. All reasonable care is taken of MSS, photographs, drawings, maps, etc., but the Editor and his staff cannot hold themselves responsible for any loss or damage. SS LT ST EE LL EE ES EE I TE SE EE IT GTS SS ETE EGET TOROS SEE SPECIAL NOTICE The Editor would be willing to consider the purchase of a limited number of certain back issues. SSR SE ST ET LP I BAPE ES OTS ESE EI EEE CONTENTS The Origin and Distribution of Aberdeenshire and Kincardine Lepidoptera. R. M. PALMER and M. R. YOUNG our Avian Predation on Butterflies — Again. Dr. A. M. SHAPIRO Inter-nest Battles of Formica lugubris Zetterstedt (Hym.:: Formicidae) in Ireland. Dr. J. BREEN .... sd a pas Central and Northern Spain, May-June 1976. H. G. PHELPS Silpha carinata Herbst (Col.: Silphidae) Confirmed as a British Breeding Species. DAVID R. NASH . Lough Derrygeeha, Co. Clare, a New Locality for Cyrnus insolutus McLachlan (Trichoptera: Polycentropodidae). J. P. O} CONNOR Notes and Observations: A Week in Weymouth in July 1977. G. SUMMERS ... The Presence of Thymelicus lineola Ochs. in ise Ba M. HADLEY ... . eat ae ee Dianthoecia compta D. & S. are Nera mnuaed in salginvenire' tonshire. S. J. PATEL . The Continuing Spread of the Broad-bordered Bee Hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis L.) in the New Forest. L. W. SIGGS Trichopteryx polycommata D. & S. in Eastbourne. M. HADLEY Wall Butterfly, aphid megera L. in West Yorkshire. A. G. LONG oi f ste se) Curious Behaviour of the Grey Dagger (Acronicta psi L.) or Dark Dagger (A. tridens D. & S). R. G. WARREN Some Less Common Moths taken in Caernarvonshire. Dr. JCS AS CRA /. t aps gt aan As Chloroclystis chloerata (Mab.) in South Westmorland and North Lancashire. J. BRIGGS ie More Hazards of Moth Hunting. R. P. DEMUTH _.... Bh Remarkable Numbers of Moths at Light near St. Dae Pembroke, July 1977. C. G. M. de WORMS i An Unusual sade cieht for Microthrix similella cause Bay JEWESS ... A Note on Breeding the Death’s Head Hawkmoth ier fie ihe atropos L.). H. L. OHEFFERNAN . Eupithecia phoeniceata (Rambur), Etainia decentella (H.-S.), Esperia oliviella (Fab.), Homoeosoma nebulella (D. & S.), Bucculatrix thoracella (Thunb.) and other Notable moths in the Winchester District. Col. D. H. STERLING Two Important Butterfly Records from Greece. J. C. COUTSIS Nymphalis antiopa L. in Scotland in 1977 and a Further Record for 1976. G. THOMSON ok A Further Record of a Camberwell aay in Worcestershire after Hibernation. J. E. GREEN bi be Limnephilus hirsutus Pic. eae ae HRP in Kent. T. W. HARMAN Hie Nymphalis polychloros L. in N.W. Kent, 1975. A. A. ALLEN . Printed by Charles Phipps Ltd., 225 Philip Lane, Tottenham, N15 4HL 285 24 296 299 205 309 295 298 298 © 304 308 308 310 311 312 313 314 314 315 315 315 316 316 316 316 VOL. 89. No. 12 December, 1977 ISSN 0013-8916 ee MUS. COMP. ZOOL mA LIBRARY CasE THE OCT 1 71980 ENTOMOLOGIS#°3"*" RECORD AND JOURNAL OF VARIATION Edited by J. M. CHALMERS-HUNT, F.R.E.s. with the assistance of A. A. ALLEN, B.SC., A.R.C.S. C. A. COLLINGWOOD, B.SC., F.R.E.S. NEVILLE BIRKETT, M.A., M.B. J. HEATH, F.R.E.S., F.L.S. S. N. A. JACOBS, F.R.E.S. (Registrar) Yada. Lieut. Col. A. M. EMMET, M.B.E., T.D., F.R.E.S. H. B. D. KETTLEWELL, M.A., M.B., B.CHIR., D.SC., L.R.C.P., F.R.E.S. PLEASE MAKE A SPECIAL NOTE THE ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION FOR 1978 IS NOW DUE £6.50 to all U.K. subscribers. £7.50 all overseas subscribers. Hon. Treasurer: P. J. RENSHAW, 53 Links Road, West Wickham, Kent, BR4 0QN MURLRLLEELURELRREEERURRRRRRE PUBLISHED MONTHLY PRICE 60p Vex Wer Vir ir Yc We YAW Wet We Vt VIVES SESSA SASS SAVINS SASS St Se Go SS SO Ao Sas SS SA GH HO THE OBSERVER’S POCKET SERIES The very first title in The Observer’s Pocket Series was THE OBSERVER’S BOOK OF BIRDS which was published in 1937. Now 40 years later and over 60 more titles, The Observer’s Pocket Series still meets with unrivalled praise from numerous organisations, the press, and the teaching profession. Each specialised book is both for the novice and the professional, with concise text and illustration throughout. Some Natural History titles include: Butterflies, Larger Moths, Common Insects and Spiders, Pond Life, Sea and Seashore, Birds, Wild Animals, Flowering Trees and Shrubs. More than 50 other titles range from Astronomy to Association Football. Price £1.10 net each. FREDERICK WARNE (Publishers) LTD. Warne House, Vincent Lane Dorking, Surrey RH4 3FW EXOTIC ENTOMOLOGICAL SPECIMENS Lepidoptera — Coleoptera — Miscellaneous Insects Livestock of Saturniidae, etc. Please write for details of our Lists, etc. R. N. BAXTER 16 Bective Road, Forest Gate London, E7 ODP, England For a personal and interested service Member of the Entomological Suppliers’ Association AURELIAN BOOKS Antiquarian, Recent and New Books on Insects and Allied Subjects bought and supplied—please advise us of your wants. Write for our latest catalogue to Barnards Farm, Dedben Green, Saffron Walden, Essex POSTAL BUSINESS ONLY FOR THE ENTOMOLOGIST Apparatus, Books, Cabinets and Set Specimens Price lists of the above are issued from time to time so if you would like to receive regular issues please send me a postcard stating your interests L. CHRISTIE 137 Gleneldon Road, Streatham, London, SW16 2BQ, England (Postal business only) Official agent for publications of the Amateur Entomologist’s Society THE AMATEUR ENTOMOLOGISTS’ SOCIETY The Society was founded in 1935 to cater especially for the younger or less experienced Entomologist. For full details of publications and activities, please write (enclosing 5p stamp to cover postage) to:— R. D. HILLIARD, Hon. Advertising Secretary, A.E.S., 18 Golf Close, Stanmore, Middlesex. BRITISH NATURALISTS’ ASSOCIATION has twenty active branches in Britain and a world-wide membership. It’s official organ, Country-Side (published three times a year), is the oldest-established British magazine devoted to general natural history Membership subscription £1.50 per annum Full details and application form (s.a.e.) obtainable from: B.N.A., ‘Willowfield’, Boyneswood Rd., Four Marks, Alton, Hants THE NATURALIST (founded 1875) A Quarterly Illustrated Journal of Natural History Edited by M. R. D. SEAWARD, M.Sc., Ph.D. Annual subscription: £4.00 (post free) Single numbers £1.00 Separates of the collected instalments of the:— LEPIDOPTERA OF YORKSHIRE (Macrolepidoptera) which appeared serially in The Naturalist (1967-1970) are also available on application. Price 50p plus 9p postage Also MARCROLEPIDOPTERA OF SPURN HEAD, E. YORKSHIRE (The Naturalist 1974). Price 25p, plus 63p postage The Editor of the Naturalist, University of Bradford, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD7 1DP i Se silt Phe sie aie aah a lee PLATE X2Vi Photo: H. N. Wykeham Phasis pringlei spec. nov. Fig. 1. ¢ Holotype (upperside). Fig. 3. ¢ Holotype (underside). Fig. 2. 2 Allotype (upperside). Fig. 4. @ Allotype (underside). Figures 1.3 times nat. size. 317 A New Species of the Phasis thero (L.) Group (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) from the Roggeveld Escarpment By C. G. C. Dickson, M.Sc.* No. 42 This insect was discovered by Mr. Ernest Pringle in a valley near Sutherland, Cape Province, on 19th December, 1975, and more specimens were found by him when re-visiting the same spot almost exactly a year later. It can be separated at a glance from any other species of its group by its remarkably distinc- tive hindwing underside. The habitat is about 5,000 ft. above sea level. Phasis pringlei spec. nov. In this insect the forewings are inclined to be deeper in relation to their length than in Ph. thero (L.), and the distal- margin less undulating (with some approach to that of Ph. clavum Murray), while the hindwings are more rounded at their upper angle. The anal-angular lobe is distinctly less prominent than in thero, but both “tails” (at the ends of veins 1b and 2) are present as in this species. In occasional or even a fair proportion of males the orange-red spots of the upper- side of the forewing are partly or mostly much reduced in size, in much the same manner as occurs in so many examples of clavum. MALE (Upperside): Forewing. Orange-red spotting reduced, in comparison with males of thero in which it is most fully developed, but - (as in the holotype of pringlei) not infrequently like that of some specimens of thero in which its development is relatively restricted. Hindwing. The orange-red submarginal spotting either developed to a variable degree (sometimes up to vein 4) or entirely absent. Cilia in all wings tend to be more uniformly light through- out than in thero, but without loss of some definitely dark spacing. Underside: Forewing. The extensive orange-red area tends to be lighter than in thero; postdiscal series of black spots less out of line at vein 4 than is usually the case in the latter species. The submarginal area at least partly of a distinctly more fawn tone than in ¢thero in its normal form. Hindwing. A large area mainly below a dark strip in and beyond cell, very distinctly fawn-coloured, and at least the greater part of the wing lacking the widespread, noticeably grey tone of that of thero. The light markings with a metallic sheen (and which have a more golden tone than in thero) are reduced in size to a remarkable degree and many or most of them are frequently absent, with only their dark edging remaining. The development of the remaining part of the * “Blencathra”’, Cambridge Avenue, St. Michael’s Estate, Cape Town. 318 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XII/77 ‘“‘key” marking beyond the end of the cell varies in individual examples, as does that of other light markings, but in all specimens seen no more than its basal end has been present. Distal-marginal area grey or bluish-grey to a depth of at least 1.5 mm., and inner-marginal area more broadly so. Cilia in all wings, though somewhat variegated, not differing greatly in colour from adjoining wing-surface. Length of forewing: 18.5-20.5 mm. (19.25 mm. in holo- type). FEMALE (Upperside): Essentially as in male. Orange-red marking of forewing more prominent and more fully developed towards apical region, in some specimens (and as in the allotype), than in male, but in individual females also decidedly reduced. Cilia sometimes (as in some males), with light coloration markedly predominent. Underside. As in male, generally, but the fawn coloration more widespread, and striking, in all wings. In the allotype the light “‘key’’ marking is comparatively well developed (but decidedly less so than in thero), as is a light streak immediately above the cell. Length of forewing: 21.25-22.25 mm. (the latter measure- ment that of allotype). é Holotype, WESTERN CAPE PROVINCE: Sutherland, 2.x11.1976 (E. L. Pringle); British Museum Reg. No. Rh.18674. 2 Allotype, W. CAPE PROVINCE: data as for holo- type, 1.x11.1976 (E.L.P.); British Museum Reg. No. Rh.18675. Paratypes in author’s coll.: as holotype, 19.xii.1975, one 6. one 22.4 .507,.1976,, 1wows.c; one,* (E.L2. Paratypes in coll. E. L. and V. Pringle: as holotype, 19.xii.1975, five ¢¢, one 2; 1.xu.1976, nine ¢¢, eleven 2° (E.L.P.). A pair of these paratypes will be presented to the Transvaal Museum. In a careful comparison of the male genitalia with those of Ph. thero no material differences have been observed, but in the present group such negative results do not indicate that the taxa concerned are not specifically distinct. All other factors that have been taken into account, do, in the writer’s view, provide convincing proof of Ph. pringlei representing an entirely separate species. It is of interest, and significant from this point of view, that Dr. J. Kaplan should have caught, apparently in the neighbourhood of Sutherland, two rather small, dark specimens, very different from pringlei, and which appear to represent a quite striking race of thero itself. Ph. clavum is widespread in this district, having been found there by Dr. Kaplan as well as by the writer, and possibly others, too. Mr. Pringle has made the following remark concerning the present species, in a letter dated 4th December, 1976: “‘We [himself and his father] have, as you know, just returned from a brief trip to Sutherland and Namaqualand. At Suther- land we caught some more nice specimens of the proposed Phasis pringlei, and succeeded in finding a second colony of CURRENT LITERATURE 319 the species up a gulley in Verlaten Kloof (the pass leading to Sutherland).’’ It was also ascertained that the butterfly was closely associated with a species of Melianthus (Meliantha- ceae). This is doubtless the larval foodplant, in view of M. major L. being one of the principal foodplants of Ph. thero CEy Specimens which represent the holotype and allotype, and two paratypes, of this butterfly are being figured in colour in Pennington’s Butterflies of Southern Africa (1978). Current Literature Insects and the Life of Man. Collected Essays on Pure Science and Applied Biology by Sir Vincent Wigglesworth, C.B.E., M.D., F.R.S. Chapman & Hall. Science Paperbacks, pp. PAT £32). This collection of essays and lectures spans the forty years up to 1971. Many of the papers have only an historical interest today, though it is interesting to observe how early doubts on the value of insecticides have been justified and how there has been a return to the control of pests by applying ecological methods. The main theme behind most of the papers is the need to strike the right balance between the Pure and Applied aspects of entomology. Sir Vincent pays tribute to the role of the amateur, not only in building up the systematic ento- mology of this country, but also in laying the foundations of many branches of the science. He shows that the role of the pure scientist is often to provide a rational basis for the practical application to problems which have been long estab- lished on empirical grounds. At the same time he stresses the need for continued support for Pure Science which should be free of compulsion to show an immediate application. Another aspect of the book is to stress the value of insects as a medium for physiological studies. Also included are a fascinating study of the versatility of insect epidermal cells; an account of the contribution to insect physiology made by Sir John Lubbock; an amusing sketch of Wordsworth’s view of science; and a final essay entitled ‘““The Religion of Science”’, in which it is suggested that a scientist’s entire system of thought is based on a faith that natural laws must exist. — E.H.W. Also received:— The Developmental Biology of Plants and Animals. Edited by C. F. Graham and P. F. Wareing, D.Sc., F.R.S. Blackwell Scientific Publications. £7.75. This brings together for the first time an up-to-date account of the embryology of plants and animals with contributions from other specialists in their particular fields. Well illustrated and set out, it seeks to cut across traditional divisions into botany, zoology and the allied sciences, and to integrate their different approaches. — E.H.W. 320 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XI1/77 April in the Highlands, 1977 By P. M. STIRLING* After delaying our visit to Scotland due to the poor weather conditions at Easter, Mike Britton and I finally left the home counties at 9.30 on the evening of the 20th April and arrived at Struan, Perthshire, about 7.30 the following morning. Intermittent rain on the motorways dampened our hopes a little and we found the posts at this well known locality quite wet. However, we did see a fresh male Cleora cinctaria bowesi Richardson and several specimens of Trichopteryx carpinata Bork. of both sexes. Females of Agriopis marginaria Fab. were also patronising these posts, although it appeared that Nyssia lapponaria Boisd. must have been over at this locality as we failed to see this species here throughout our stay. A single larva of Diacrisia sannio Linn. was found here on heather. In the afternoon we moved on to Loch Rannoch and tried for the second successive year to locate Conopia solia- formis Bork., but the species eluded us again and all that we found was a vast quantity of holes caused by some other insect. Sweeping the heather in the Black Wood at Rannoch produced a number of larvae of Xestia castanea Esp., Phrag- matobia fuliginosa Linn., Lycophotia porphyrea D. & S. and Alcis repandata Linn., but no Dasychira fascelina Linn. which we had found not uncommon here in 1976; we also found single specimens of Ectropis bistortata Goeze and Archieapis parthenias Linn. That evening the rain became rather heavy and our lights at Rannoch only attracted a few Orthosia gothica Linn., O. stabilis D. & S. and O. crude D. & S. On the 22nd we left the Rannoch area and on the way to Aviemore stopped first near Tummel Bridge and were delighted to find four female N. lapponaria Boisd. on posts, together with 7. carpinata Bork. and E. bistortata Goeze. At the last minute we again decided to stop at Struan and were surprised to find a number of fresh C. cinctaria bowesi Richardson on the posts of the deer fence. We had thought that the heavy rain and wind would have driven most insects to cover, but we were delighted to be proven wrong. Again T. carpinata Bork. and a single Colostygia multistrigaria Haw. were also present. En route to Aviemore we stopped on some fairly high ground and were excited to find the first male N. lapponaria Boisd. of our stay. About twenty were located on posts along a stretch of about half a mile. However, only a couple of females were seen, indicating that the high elevation had retarded their emergence. We also found a single fresh Achlya flavicornis Linn., another species which appeared to be over in all other localities we tried on this visit. That evening we pitched the tent in some woodland near Aviemore and with high hopes of exciting things to come set * 83 Grasmere Road, Purley, Surrey CR2 1DZ. APRIL IN THE HIGHLANDS 321 out the lights and commenced to work the sallows. Despite not having a sheet, which we later found buried in the car, we managed to dislodge some finegothicina forms of O. gothica Linn. and some attractive specimens of O. incerta Hufn., as well as several Xylena vetusta Hiibn. from whch we eventually obtained a number of ova. Cerastis rubricosa D. & S. in its silvery northern form appeared quite common also. The next morning the traps held most of the previous evening’s species, with the addition of several specimens of the large northern form of Lycia hirtaria Clerck. However, there were no Brachioncha nubeculosa Esp. for which we were undoubtedly too late. Later in the morning after a brief snow shower we ventured out on to Granish Moor, although with the exception of a few A. parthenias Linn. we drew a blank at this locality, and in the afternoon returned to the woods of our previous night’s activity. After scanning miles of posts our only reward in the way of lepidoptera was a single female Lycia hirtaria Clerck, although we were treated to some fine close sightings of a pair of buzzards at their nest and shortly after discovered that we had pitched our tent about ten feet below a pair of nesting long-tailed tits. In the evening we laid out a fairly extensive sugar run on posts and birch trunks and hardly had we put the brushes away before one of these patches had attracted a fine Xylena exsoleta Linn., and a further specimen was on another patch much later in the evening. Another birch trunk yielded Orthosia incerta Hufn. in cop., and we noted all the species from the previous evening again at sallow, with the addition of O. populeti Fab. On the 24th we returned to Struan and en route revisited the N. lapponaria Boisd. colony where we found the species to be even more common and stretching further along the posts. A pair were noted in cop. and eventually we did find both sexes sitting on bog myrtle well away from any posts and seemingly just basking in the sun. We had the pleasant surprise at this locality of finding a number of Macrothylacia rubi Linn. larvae sunning themselves on the grass, although it required a great deal of walking as they were spaced very widely apart. Most had pupated within about forty-eight hours, and nearly all had emerged by the end of May. A cocoon was found on heather very reminiscent of the Ruby Tiger, but on 17th May it proved to be a fine female Acronicta menyan- thidis Esp. Arriving back at Struan we briefly scanned the posts and found several more C. cinctaria bowesi Richardson and a single female A. marginaria Fab. That evening the lights were placed in some unopened sallows and a sugar run was put out on alders by the river. Some fine sallows in blossom were duly shaken and produced specimens of X. vetusta Hiibn., O. stabilis D. & S., O. gothica Linn., O. incerta Hufn. and C. rubricosa D. & S. However, apart from a single cinctaria the sugar proved a complete blank. 322 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XIL/77 We inspected the trap the following morning but found nothing new, although several more large L. hirtaria Clerck were very welcome, and finally we again noted cinctaria sitting on the posts. Leaving Struan at 10.30, we were home for supper. BEGINNER’S LucK! COSCINIA CRIBRARIA L. SSP. ARENARIA LEMPKE (LEP.: ARCTIIDAE) IN KENT. — On the 6th July, 1977, I found in the Rothamsted light trap which I run in my garden a moth which I did not immediately recognise. This is not an unusual occurrence, as I have only extended my interests to moths in the last two years or so. However, after consulting South, I concluded that I had caught something pretty unusual. As far as I could judge, it was a fresh male C. cribraria, and since it was very lightly marked I concluded that it might be ssp. arenaria Lempke, which “‘has been taken occasionally at Dungeness, no doubt immigrants from the Belgian coast sand dunes”’’ (South, 1961 edition). At this point I went to work feeling very pleased with myself! My doubts that I had really got C. cribraria increased as the day wore on and by the time I got home again, I was sure I must be wrong. A second examination, however, con- firmed my opinion. Then I consulted Mr. Chalmers-Hunt’s Butterflies and Moths of Kent, Vol. II, and discovered that, far from occasionally being taken at Dungeness, only one had ever been taken there—on 21st July, 1934—and that only four altogether had ever been taken in Kent, the other three occurring at Sandwich, the latest in 1937. This renewed my doubts! I decided that it would be foolhardy to rush into print and I would wait for a second opinion. This I have now received and I am pleased to record that Mr. R. F. Bretherton confirmed that it is a male Coscinia cribraria L. ssp. arenaria Lempke. (Taken 5th July, 1977 at Minster, Sheppey.) In the hope of taking further specimens of the moth, I ran an m.v. lamp, in addition to the Rothamsted trap, over the following week or so, but without any success. It would seem most likely that it was a migrant from the Belgian coast, as there are certainly no sand dunes in this area, although it would have received little or no wind assistance for its fairly long trip, as conditions had been calm for some days. Particularly surprising is the freshness of the specimen. There is little or no loss of scales. (Perhaps it came by ferry from Flushing to Sheerness!) The black markings on it are very scarce and it lacks completely the streaks which normally run the length of the fore-wings. My thanks to Mr. R. F. Bretherton for confirming the identification. I hope to be able to report more specimens next year! — GEOFFREY N. Burton, ““Mar-y-Mar’’, Minster Drive, Minster-in-Sheppey, Kent, ME12 2NG. 323 Mycetophila strigatoides (Landrock): an Overlooked British Fungus Gnat (Diptera: Mycetophilidae) By PETER J. CHANDLER* During a visit to the Cambridge University Museum, I found that the two males referred to Mycetophila bialorussica Dziedzicki in the collections there, were not conspecific and one of them was subsequently found to be M. strigatoides (Landrock), a widespread Holarctic species according to the synonymy established by Plassmann (1970b). Although apparently less frequent in Europe than in North America, its occurrence in Britain was expected. M. strigatoides resembles bialorussica in many respects, including the fore tarsi thickened in both sexes; apart from genital characters (notably the bifid distal portion of the disti- style), strigatoides has the male tarsi less strongly enlarged and the wing markings smaller; the preapical band is less intense and is not always touching the tip of vein RI. Mycetophila strigatoides (Landrock) Mycetophila strygata (sic) Zetterstedt: Dziedzicki, 1881, Tab. VII, 9-12. Fungivora strigatoides WLandrock, 1927, 177 nom. n. for strygata Dziedzicki, 1884 nec Staeger, 1840, 242; Plass- mann, 1970a, 391; 1971, 78. Fungivora venusta Laffoon, 1956, 290; synonymy, Plassmann, 1970b, 399. Mycetophila strigatoides (Landrock); Plassmann, 1973, 17. Male. Wing length 3.2 mm. Head brown; scape, pedicel and base of first flagellar segment yellow, rest of antenna grey; palpi brownish yellow. Mesoscutum mainly shining dark brown, clothed with pale hair; anterior margin, broad humeral margins and small postalar patches yellow. Prothorax brownish yellow; rest of pleura, metathorax and scutellum brown. Three propleurals, four bristles on mesepimeron, two pairs of scutellars. Halteres yellow. Legs entirely yellow except faint darkening at extreme tip of hind femur. Anterior setulae of hind tibia dark. Hind coxal setae short. Mid tibia with 3 a, | a-d, 5 d (last more p-d), 2 p, 2 v. Hind tibia with 6 a, 5 d (1 short above), 3 short p near tip. Segments 2-4 of fore tarsi a little thickened below. Wings yellowish with yellow veins. M before r-m with 1 setule below near tip; r-m about twice m-stalk. R5 a little down curved towards tip. A small dark brown central spot from R to base of m-fork; a lighter preapical shade filling end of cell R1 but stopping a little short of vein R1, contracted basad in cell R5, faintly extended across median fork to just reach Cul (according to Laffoon’s description of venusta, preapical band may begin at, just before or just beyond R1; M before r-m may have 1-2 setulae below). -* Weston Research Laboratories, 644 Bath Road, Taplow, Maidenhead, Berks. 324 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XII/77 Abdomen mostly dark brown, narrowly paler at bases and apices of tergites. Hypopygium brownish yellow, figs. la-b. Material examined: STIRLING: Auchenbowie, /7- 11.ix.1904, 1 ¢ (F. Jenkinson, Cambridge Univ. Mus.). The above description agrees substantially with Laffoon’s (op. cit.) description of venusta. He stated that Nearctic specimens had a basally constricted process on the posterior margin of the dististyle not apparent in Dziedzicki’s figures of “strygata’’ or in Bukowski’s (1934) figures of his pseudoquadra, which is closely similar. Plassmann considered that the dis- crepancy resulted from the aspect figured and based the synonymy on specimens collected by him in Germany. Fig. 1 a-b. Mycetophila strigatoides (Landrock), male hypopygium; a, ventral view; b, dorso-internal view of stylomeres. Fig. 2 a-b. M. bialorussica Dziedzicki, male hypopygium; a, ventral view; b, internal view of stylomeres. A further closely similar form was described in both sexes by Matile (1967) from the Pyrenees as psedoquadroides, which he compared with bialorussica, quadra Lundstrém (1909, 61, figs. 143-5) and pseudoquadra Bukowski, without mentioning strigatoides. The constricted process of the dististyle is omitted from his figure but the genitalia do not otherwise differ appre- ciably from strigatoides and I consider it likely that both pseudoquadra and pseudoquadroides will prove to be synony- mous with strigatoides. M. quadra has a few spines and many spinules on ventral and dorsal lobes of the basistyle respec- tively, i.e. in reverse positions to str.gatoides, and the dististyle is also shorter and not bifid. MYCETOPHILA STRIGATOIDES (LANDROCK) 325 Mycetophila bialorussica Dziedzicki This too is scarce in Britain and records are fully quoted by Chandler (1977) where the ovipositor is figured. I have also seen 1 ¢, BANFFSHIRE: Logie, 27.ix.1913 (F. Jenkinson, Cambridge Univ. Mus.). The male genitalia (figs. 2a-b) are figured here for comparison with strigatoides; external differences are as follows: — Legs orange yellow with apical quarter of hind femora and tip of mid tibia darkened; fore tarsi with segments 2-4 more strongly enlarged than in strigatoides, especially 2 near tip and 3; mid tibia with 3 v; hind tibia with 7 a, 7 d (first weak), 4 short p near tip. Wing markings similar but larger and darker, both of same intensity; preapical band touching extreme tip of Rl, reaching Cul but interrupted in m-fork, 0-2 setulae below tip of M before r-m. Acknowledgements In am indebted to Dr. W. Foster of the Cambridge University Museum for the opportunity to study the Myceto- philid collection there and for the loan of selected material. References Bukowski, W. 1934. Neue und abweichende Formen von Pilzmticken (Diptera, Fungivoridae) aus der Krim. Konowia, 13: 183-192. Chandler, P. J. 1977. Studies of some fungus gnats (Diptera, Myceto- philidae) including nine additions to the British list. Syst. Ent., 2: 67-93. Dziedzicki, H. 1884. Przyczynek do fauny owad6w dwuskrzydlych Gatunki rodzajow: Mycothera, Mycetophila, Staegeria. Pamietnika Fizyjograficznego, 4: 298-324. Laffoon, J. 1957. A revision of the Nearctic species of Fungivora (Diptera, Mycetophilidae). Iowa State Coll. J. Sci., 31: 141-340. Landrock, K. 1927. Fungivoridae (Mycetophilidae) in Lindner, E. Die Fliegen der Palaearktischen Region, 8: 1-195. Stuttgart. Lundstrom, C. 1909. Beitrage zur Kenntnis der Dipteren Finlands. IV. Suppl. Acta Soc. Fauna Fl. Fenn., 32: 1-67. Matile, L. 1967. Notes sur les Mycetophilidae de la région pyrenéenne et description de quatre espéces nouvelles (Diptera, Nematocera). Bull. Soc. ent. France, 77: 121-126, 208-217. Plassmann, E. 1970a. Die Fungivoriden Sammlung des Senckenberg- Museums Frankfurt-am-Main. Senckenbergiana biol., 51: 387-391. Plassmann, E. 1970b. Zur Taxonomie der Fungivoridae (Diptera). Senckenbergiana biol., 51: 393-400. Plassmann, E. 1971. Uber die Fungivoriden-Fauna (Diptera) des Natur- patkes Hoher Vogelsberg. Oberhess. Naturwiss. Zeitschr., 38: Plassmann, E. 1973. Pilzmucken in der Lichtfalle (Diptera, Myceto- philidae). Mitt. Dtsche Ent. Ges., 32: 15-17. Staeger, C. 1840. Systematisk Fortegnelse over de i Danmark hidtil fundne Diptera. Natur. Tidsskr., 3: 228-288. EUMICHTIS LICHENEA HBN. ON THE NoRTH KENT Coast. — I found five male specimens of the Feathered Ranunculus at rest in the ticket office alcove at Chestfield and Swalecliffe station on 29th September, 1977. It was a blustery night and other moths were also present. — J. PLatrs, 11 Maydowns Road, Chestfield, Whitstable, Kent. 326 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/577 Corfu Butterflies in Spring 1977 By Major General C. G. Lipscoms* Various articles have appeared in The Record from time to time covering entomological activities in most parts of Europe but never, as far as I am aware, has the Island of Corfu had so much as a mention. This spring, my wife and I decided to visit the island on a package tour to enjoy the spring flowers for which it is well known and at the same time we hoped to see something of its butterflies. Flying time from Gatwick was about three hours and we arrived on the afternoon of 18th April. The weather was hot and sunny and the countryside looked delightfully green as we motored to our hotel in Corfu town. Between the hotel and the sea was a large public garden with many oleander bushes and in one corner a bed of stocks where a number of Vanessa cardui Linn., all very worn, were feeding on the flowers. Surprisingly no other butterflies were seen, nor did a cursory inspection of the oleander bushes produce a larva of the Oleander Hawk-moth, which I felt was a possibility. From some large trees lining one side of the garden the mono- tonous call of a scops owl could often be heard at night. The bird seemed quite undisturbed by the passing traffic. The following day our bus took us to the coast at Paleo Castritsa in the N.W. of the island, where the country is hilly with many olive trees and low mixed scrub. Several Gonep- teryx cleopatra Linn. could be seen flying about the hillsides and white butterflies were common on the cultivated ground. All of the latter I was able to examine were Pieris rapae Linn., although its near relatives Pieris mannii nayei and Pieris ergane H.G. could well have been present but undetected as the locality seemed suitable for them. Also seen that day were Pararge megera Linn. and Pararge aegeria Linn., although neither were common. A single Vanessa atalanta Linn. was observed and Callophrys rubi Linn. proved relatively plentiful. I see I made a note in my diary that this was not a very rich collection, but at least it was a start. The 20th and 2lst were overcast and occasionally wet, SO we were able to concentrate on the flowers and make the acquaintance of many of the fine orchids which were the real highlight of the tour. We awoke on the 22nd to cloudless skies and our bus took us part of the way up Mount Pantocrator, the highest point on the island and from whose summit one can look across the mile and a half wide Corfu channel to the barren coast- line of Albania. Many fine orchids were found on this moun- tain but cardui and megera were the only butterflies seen. The following day, when there was no planned expedition, I took the opportunity to explore some rough ground within walking distance of the hotel on the outskirts of the town. * Crockerton House, Warminster, Wiltshire. CORFU BUTTERFLIES IN SPRING 1977 327 The results were not without interest as the area supported the only colony I found of Coenonympha pamphilus Linn. They were particularly interesting because the undersides of the hind wings of both sexes were almost unicolourous. Pieris brassicae Linn. and P. rapae were also seen and it was noted that the former were all considerably smaller than those one is famaliar with at home. On the 24th we visited Aghios Gordis beach on the west coast and spent the day in its vicinity. While there we saw the first of many Iphiclides podalirius Linn. —also noted were Leptidea sinapis Linn. in some numbers and odd specimens of Aricia agestis Schiff. and Polyommatus icarus Rott. On the 26th, while at Aghios Mattheos, I met a young English bird-watcher who told me that a few days ago he had seen Nymphalis polychloros Linn. sunning itself while at rest on a tree trunk. I thought this very probable as there was no lack of its foodplant on the island. On this day too, I saw the first Papilio machaon Linn. The foodplant, fennel, is locally common in the more low lying parts of the island. The next day our bus took us across the island to a point on the coast near the village of Kellia from where a rough path led down a steep slope to a lovely little beach backed by high cliffs. On the way down, red rumped swallows were collecting mud from a wet patch on the path to build their nests and several pairs of blue rock thrushes were seen flying about the cliffs. A single early Limenitis reducta Staud. was identified flying along a wooded path under the cliffs and later on the first Nymphalis antiopa Linn. appeared near the bus when we returned for our lunch, as well as further machaon and podalirius. On the 29th we paid a second visit to Mount Pantocrator and found more butterflies about. At the very top of the mountain in an area of stony ground I netted a small black butterfly which proved to be Erynnis marloyi Boisd., the Inky Skipper, a butterfly I had not seen before. Podalirius in some numbers seemed to favour this high ground and were easily photographed as they fed on the low-growing flowers. Further down a single Lycaena phlaeas Linn. was identified, together with the blue Glancopsyche alexis Poda and the first Melitaea cinxia Linn. On the 30th we hired a car and motored down to the southern end of the island, which is rather flat and uninterest- ing. As we sat in the shade of some tall willow trees near Lake Korisson, we watched a second Nymphalis antiopa Linn. sailing round the upper branches and periodically settling on a convenient sprig. This second sighting was interesting as the butterfly is reported in Higgins & Riley as not occurring on any of the Mediterranean islands. On Ist May, our last day, the bus took us to Sidari on the north coast. Here I noticed the first Colias croceus Four- _croy flying over rough ground by the sea and captured a fine fresh 2 Pontia daplidice Linn. on the shore as it fed on the flowers of a maritime plant. 328 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/AM/77 So ended a most pleasant fortnight and although, as I noted in my diary, the island was not rich entomologically, I feel it has possibilites and a further visit, possibly in May, might well prove more fruitful. A THIRD BRITISH SPECIMEN OF PAMMENE LUEDERSIANA (SORHAGEN). — This species has so-far been recorded in Britain only from the Aviemore district (Youden, 1975, Ento- mologist’s Rec. J. Var., 86:197 and Emmet, 1976, ibid., 88: 88). The latter record was of a moth reared from bog myrtle (Myrica gale). A female specimen was captured by me flying over bog myrtle near Camghouran, Rannoch, Perthshire, on the evening of 18th June, 1977. It is strange that this species seems to have been over- looked by those microlepidopterists who used to work the Camghouran area for long periods. Perhaps earlier specimens are yet to be found hidden in a series of other species. — E. C. PELHAM-CLINTON, The Royal Scottish Museum, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF, 24.viii.1977. BISTON BETULARIA LINN. AB. CARBONARIA JORDAN AND OTHER LEPIDOPTERA IN IRELAND IN 1976 AND 1977. — On July 5th, 1977, I caught one Biston betularia Linn. ab. carbonaria Jordan at Blackrock, Cork City. As far as I am aware, this is the first Irish record of this ab. away from the Northern and Eastern coastal counties. Other interesting Lepidoptera seen during Summer visits to Ireland in the last two years include: Cyclophora linearia Hiibn., one, Carrigrohan, near Cloghroe, Mid Cork, 24.vii.77. Euphyia biangulata (Haw.), one, Knockalisheen, Mid Cork, 24.vii.76; one, Carrigrohan, Mid Cork, 31.vii.76; and one there again on 24.vii.77. Apeira syringaria (Linn.). Although described by Baynes as “Scarce and of sporadic distribution’’, I have found this insect on three occasions as follows: one, Clonsilla, Co. Dublin, 11.vii.76; one at Douglas, Mid Cork, 6.vii.77; and one at Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath, 14.vii.77. Nudaria mundana (Linn.), four, Carrigrohan, Mid Cork, 24.vii.77. Atolmis rubricollis (Linn.), one, Carrigrohan, Mid Cork, 24.vu.77. Lithosia quadra (Linn.), five, Carrigrohan, Mid Cork, 31.vii.76, and eleven there on 24.vii.77. Agrotis trux Hiubn. s.sp. lunigera Steph., one, Oysterhaven, Mid Cork, 22.vii.77. Hadena perplexa (D. & S.) s.sp. capsophila (Dup.), two, Oysterhaven, Mid Cork, 22.vii.77. Along with the last two species, on 22.vii.77 a perfect specimen of Aphantopus hyperantus (Linn.) was found in the trap. All the above records are of examples obtained at m.v. trap. References: Baynes, E. S. A., 1964. A revised Catalogue of Irish Macrolepidoptera. Baynes, E. S. A., 1970. Supplement to a revised Catalogue of Irish Macrolepidoptera. — K. G. M. Bonp, Lutzowst. 4, 32, Hildersheim, West Germany. 329 Eucosma metzneriana Treitschke (Lep.: Tortricidae): a Species New to the British List By R. J. REVELL* On 22nd July, 1977, whilst using portable m.v. equipment in the company of Jonathan Scoble at a waste chalky locality near Cambridge, a large unfamiliar-looking Eucosmid was captured from the sheet at about 11.30 p.m. Further examina- tion the following morning confimed its unfamiliarity, and subsequent comparison with the S. Wakely and other collec- tions at the Cambridge University Department of Zoology, failed to establish an identification. The specimen is a female in very good condition with wing markings reminiscent of E. pupillana Clerck, but much nearer E. foenella L. in size. Through the good offices of Col. Emmet, a brief descrip- tion was transmitted to Dr. Bradley at the British Museum (Nat. Hist.), who tentatively suggested the name E. metz- neriana Treits. Later, Dr. Bradley kindly examined the moth and confirmed this identification. Fig. 1. Eucosma metzneriana Tr., near Cambridge, 22.vii.77. Life size al. exp. 22 mm., and enlarged. FE. metzneriana, which is new to the British list, is known from Europe, through Asia to Japan. Its larva is stated by continental authors (including Lhomme, 1946) to feed inside the terminal shoots of Artemisia absinthium (Wormwood) during the Autumn and Spring. Hannemann (1961) also gives as a foodplant A. vulgaris (Mugwort). Wormwood has not yet been located at or near the site of capture, but Mugwort abounds — as it does almost everywhere. The occurrence of this insect near Cambridge raises the usual three questions: (1) is it a chance migrant?; (2) a representative from a recently established colony?; or (3) one 330 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15, / XE FI7 from an old established colony unknown to earlier entomo- logists? The second possibility seems the most likely, and if further investigations show that a colony exists here, one must surely assume the presence of the species elsewhere in Britain. Acknowledgements I wish to thank Col. Emmet and Dr. Bradley for their help in identification, and Mr. D. E. Wilson for kindly photo- graphing my specimen here shown. * 1 The Furrells, Linton, Cambridge. References Hannemann, H. J., 1961. Die Tierwelt Deutschlands. Part 48. Klein- schmetterlinge oder Microlepidoptera. I. Die Wickler (s.str.) (Tortricidae), p. 133. Lhomme, L., 1946. Catalogue des Lepidopteres de France et de Belgique, Vol. 2, p. 350. A CASE AGAINST THE AUTOMOBILE. — Some months ago mention was made to me by Dr. J. V. Banner of the damage caused to the countryside, and nocturnal macro-lepidoptera in particular, by road traffic. Several aspects were discussed but deaths caused by physical collision took precedence. Although somewhat sceptical at first, I took the trouble to note such fatalities as and when they occurred during 1977—not a good year for moths, numerically speaking. The simple survey carried out covered the months of May to August inclusive, and for the purposes of the final figure quoted are taken as the annual toll—possibles and probables being disregarded, as were micros. Almost 144,000 million miles were travelled by motor vehicles on the roads of Great Britain during 1972 (Dunn, J. B., 1974. Transport and Road Research Laboratory Report 618)—the last year for which figures are personally available. Of this traffic approximately 20% travelled nocturnally (Gyenes, L., 1973. Transport and Road Research Laboratory Report 549) dependent on site. Thus a total of 28,800 million miles were covered during the hours of darkness—9,600 million during the survey months. The survey totalled some 355 miles of relevant motoring, with fatalities numbering 69 moths. A simple calculation reveals the incredible figure of over 1,800 million moths killed annually by motor vehicles alone. The highest rate of deaths noted was 10 per 10 miles and the lowest nil. These figures are not quoted as an accurate total but rather as a strong guide to the undoubted slaughter that is occurring on our roads and to indicate the perhaps unrealised magnitude of the deaths. To end on a more hopeful note, a similar survey on butterflies totalled “‘only”’ six deaths during the year—interest- ingly they were all Pieridae and therefore of the genus that could perhaps best withstand such losses—CoLIN PRATT, *““Oleander’’, 5 View Road, Peacehaven, Newhaven, Sussex. 3a The Glanville Fritillary (Melitaea cinxia L.) in Gloucestershire By J. E. GREEN* On the afternoon of the 8th June, 1977 in warm sunshine following a spell of poor weather, my wife and I set out to explore a remote part of the Cotswolds. At about 4 p.m. we had arrived by chance and paused on a rough piece of ground near a wood where a considerable number of insects was on the wing. Numerous species had been noted, when an odd looking butterfly appeared which I followed until it settled. To my utter amazement I saw that it was a fresh Glanville Fritillary ¢. During the next hour it reappeared at intervals and I succeeded in taking a number of photographs. The next day I contacted Charles Cuthbert, the Executive and Conservation Officer for the Gloucestershire Trust for Nature Conservation about the discovery, and on 16th June I took him to the site. After about half an hour when it began to look as if our journey was in vain, the Glanville suddenly appeared, and again a photograph was taken. Subsequent detailed study of the colour slides revealed that it was not the one seen on the 8th. Constraints of bad weather, work and distance precluded another visit until 23rd June, when I took my old friend and butterfly enthusiast Gordon Haines to the site, and in good weather we saw at least three different Glanvilles, a fresh 2 and two 4, one slightly worn and one freshly emerged, about 150 yards from the main area. It was now clear that this was a small wild colony. Only one other visit was possible, on 4th July with G.H. again, when another 2° was seen. This appears to be the first record of the species in Glou- cestershire. Knowledge of the location has been limited to four people for the present. However, if the butterfly has been introduced, which seems highly probable, then someone else will know unless the release was made some distance from the site. The Trust are appealing to anyone who knows of any release of stock of this species in the county to come forward and give details. In the absence of such evidence, the origin of the colony so far from the Isle of Wight will remain a mystery. Could it possibly be an example of this species attempting to increase its range northwards during that totally exceptional summer of 1976? Other species turned up well away from their normal haunts, but the Glanville is so local on the I. of W., and Gloucestershire so far away, that it must be extremely unlikely. Another intriguing factor about the site is that there is an adjacent meadow, and so there is quite good agreement with the description given by Stephens in 1827: ‘This is a very local species and is found in meadows by the sides of woods.” It is a beautifully sheltered warm spot with plenty of narrow leafed plantain. May be released stock found it in _ some mysterious way, or is it conceivable that the Glanville * 25 Knoll Lane, Poolbrook, Malvern, Worcs. WR14 3JU. 332 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XII/77 has been present all the time in Gloucestershire? It could never be proved, but one can reflect on cases like the discovery of Carterocephalus palaemon Pallas in North Scotland in 1939, when everyone thought it was confined to the East Midlands. It is perhaps of interest to list the other species originally found at the site, which caused us to pause awhile on that memorable afternoon. They were: A glais urticae L., Callophrys rubi L., Pyrgus malvae L., Erynnis tages L., Hamearis lucina L., Coenonympha pamphilus L., Gonepteryx rhamni L., Anthocharis cardamines L., Pieris napi L., Aricia agestis D. & S., Polyommatus icarus Rott., Ectypa glyphica L., Eucli- dimera mi Clerck and Ematurga atomaria L. We look forward eagerly to a visit next year. In conclusion, it is worth noting that no specimens have been taken and that photography has proved a valuable aid in assessing the colony. A RECENT OCCURRENCE OF PHYLLOTRETA VITTATA F. (=SINUATA AUCT. Brit.) (COL.: CHRYSOMELIDAE). — This ‘“‘turnip flea’ is, as Fowler (1890, Col. Brit. Isl., 4: 367) states, a rare species with us; though at least one instance is known of its occurrence in plenty, when the eminent coleopterist just mentioned found it commonly at Eskdale, Cumb., in 1911 (Fowler & Donisthorpe, 1913, ibid., 6: 292). Donisthorpe him- self never took the species, despite being—as he told me— particularily desirous of so doing in order to complete his series of the Phyllotretae. Yet the records are comparatively numerous, except for the last half-century for which period there are hardly any; the former fact may, I think, be due to its having long been known as a rarity to collectors who therefore took the trouble to publish their captures, which could give the impression that it is commoner than it really is. For the extreme southern counties there are only two quite old records (N. Kent and N. Cornwall); the bulk are for East Anglia and Wales across the Midlands and through the north of England. I was pleased to find P. vittata for the first time at Foulden, near Swaffham in W. Norfolk, at the beginning of September 1973, while spending a few days with my friends Mr. and Mrs. A. W. Gould. It was in their kitchen garden, then only just “‘reclaimed’’ from the fallow state and overrun with horseradish (Armoracia). I was unable to decide whether the flea-beetles—obtained by general sweeping—were coming off that or other equally suitable crucifers present (cabbage, char- lock, etc.) or from all indifferently; it was distinctly uncommon, and patient work was needed to secure a fair series. Its close relative P. undulata Kuts. occurred with it in similar numbers. Under a lens, the P. vittata were easily discriminated by the form of the yellow elytral stripes, which is its chief charac- teristic. It should be noted that this species has always been ascribed in our literature to the sinuata of Stephens, whereas the latter is now ascertained to be synonymous with flexuosa Tl. — A. A. ALLEN. 333 Artificial Chambers for Wood-associated Sesiid Larvae By COLIN PRATT* After spending much time during the last two years searching in Sussex for Clearwing larvae and rearing them, it occurred to me that the following successful results of experimentation may be of interest to other enthusiasts of these most interesting lepidoptera. By far the most wide ranging and authoritative account of the general collection and rearing of British Sesiidae was published over 30 years ago in an A.E.S. leaflet (1946) and, as far as I know, this excellent pamphlet has yet to be equalled. The now standard technique of section cutting using a damp sand treatment with larva or pupa in situ was therein described and illustrated. A further treatise was published by Fibiger and Kristensen (1974) detailing the Clearwings present in Fennoscandia and Denmark — with especial regard to the biology of the species treated, much of which is relevant to the British Isles. As the problem of a larva made homeless by human intervention was not mentioned in either publication, and necessity being the mother of invention, I thought of the possibility of using artificial galleries which would yield high success rates with larvae in their final. year. The following techniques were evolved to supplement the method of rearing Sesiidae detailed in the above publications, but differ in that the larvae would continue to function, pupate and successfully emerge, from a simple but somewhat artificial environment. Bark Dwellers When bark inhabiting larvae are encountered, artificial homes are occasionally necessary either because their natural habitat has been inadvertently broken during the search and subsequent safe extraction, or because of inaccessibility of the complete chamber. When collecting larvae, representative portions of bark were taken from living tree stumps felled not more than two years previously. The section of bark thought necessary con- sisted of a vertical strip which included sap containing the lower portion found on or near the tree-roots. Holes were drilled vertically through the dead section well into the moist layer to a depth of approximately 5 cms., but without breaking through; and, to allow room for larval manoeuvrability, a drill diameter of some 4 mm. was used. The larvae were then introduced head first, one each to a hole. All the larvae encountered took readily to their new homes, which were then lightly plugged with cotton wool and gently mist sprayed with water. Their apparent love of moisture was later illustrated by the semi-immersed position of the cocoons in the water- soaked sand. This simple technique proved extremely successful with “species such as Aegeria culiciformis L. and Synanthedon vespi- * “QOleander’’, 5 View Road, Peacehaven, Newhaven, Sussex. 334 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15) XAT T formis L., despite the former’s penchant in nature for wood aS a pupation site. Gall and Twig Inhabitors Artificial chambers are sometimes needed for this type of larvae due either to accident, when for example seeking immediate species confirmation in the field, or design, if a gallery is urgently required for the cabinet. Transference to an artificial mine was again a relatively simple matter. After cutting a fresh strong twig of the appro- priate wood, it was split for half its length of roughly 25 cms. A cylindrical artificial mine was carved from the pith of the wood laterally, commencing as far down the split twig as was practicable —a groove being cut from both half sections. An adequate chamber length is usually 25 mm., with a dia- meter commensurate to larval size but again ensuring sufficient space is available for movement. Introduction of a larva to the artificial chamber was made as soon as practicable after cutting, either head up or down. After insertion, the split ends of the twig were brought together, taking care not to pinch the larva within, and held in place by elastic bands or small Terry clips. The larva will, after a short examination of its new cir- cumstances, vigorously commence to exclude all light with chewed wood and fine webbing. Occasionally, if the twig is sufficiently fresh and held in a suitable environment, the split will heal over sealing the occupant “naturally” inside — species of Salix being especially prone. With regard to Conopia flaviventris Staudinger in particu- lar, despite almost two years ‘spent constructing an often complex peripheral mine in nature, this species takes quite happily to the relatively crude man-made tubular gallery. Tree Trunk Borers These species, being the most difficult to extract success- fully from their natural sites, are perhaps those that require artificial galleries more often than most. Although section cutting is preferable to a purist collector, this is often neither possible nor desirable. A variation of the preceding techniques was used for these relatively large larvae — yielding favourable results when applied for example to S. bembeciformis Hiibn. After peeling back a large shaving of bark using a knife, a steeply sloping hole some 10 mm. in diameter was drilled into a limb of appropriate green wood. Before larval introduction, the orifice was sprayed with water to offset any dehydration of the wood due to the heat of drilling. After larval insertion, the bark strip was replaced and held in place by a drawing pin. As usual, a routine of mist spraying was carried out avoiding the formation of mould. A few larvae tended to wander at pupation time but it was thought to be a natural occurrence rather than the result of larval irritation. This was partially confirmed on consulting Buckler (1887) and Fibiger & Kristensen (1974). THE GENETICS OF EAST AFRICAN LEPIDOPTERA — XIV 335 In conclusion, the above techniques formed a simple method of successfully rearing Sesiidae larvae, when their original excavations were unavailable. References A.E.S., 1946. A.E.S. Leaflet No. 18. Collecting Clearwings. Buckler, W., 1887. Larvae of British Butterflies and Moths, 2: 123. Fibiger, M. and Kristensen, N. P., 1974. The Sesiidae (Lepidoptera) of Fennoscandia and Denmark. The Genetics of East African Lepidoptera — XIV By D. G. SEVASTOPULO, F.R.E.S.* Danaus chrysippus (L.) (Danaidae) (3) In two previous papers (Sevastopulo, 1970, 1976) I have given strong indications that the nomino-typical form is recessive to f. dorippus Klug. A recent brood has confirmed this, without a shadow of doubt. A nomino-typical female, caught in my garden in June 1977, laid approximately 50 eggs over a period of four days, and died completely spent. All the eggs laid on the first two days hatched, but some of those laid on the third, and all those laid on the fourth day, failed to colour up and were, obviously, infertile. There were no larval casualties and eventually 40 pupae were obtained. Unfortunately, despite denuding the leaves fed to the larvae of their underside tomentum, five pupae pro- duced Tachinid parasites. All the emergences from the remaining 35 were f. dorippus, 18 males and 17 females, a result that could only be obtained from a pairing between a homozygous dominant (dorippus) and a recessive (chrysippus). An interesting point is that whilst Kenya Coast dorippus usually have both fore- and hind-wings an almost uniform golden-brown, all the present brood had the basal two-thirds of the forewing distinctly darker and redder than the rest. References Sevastopulo, D. G., 1970. Genetics of East African Lepidoptera, XII. Entomologist, 103: 70. —___—_1__—., 1976. Genetics of East African Lepidoptera, XIII. Ent. Rec., 88: 72. * P.O. Box 95026, Mombasa, Kenya. NOTICE TO SUBSCRIBERS Despite inflation and increased postage costs, we will be able to hold the subscription rates for 1978 the same as for 1977. This is mainly because of an increase in the number of subscribers to the journal. Would you therefore please endeavour to encourage others to take out a subscription to The Record ‘to eave the present subscription rate to be held for a further period. 336 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 (boy ball Baye | LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dear Sir, Whilst I am aware that Mr. Brown is well able to reply to Mr. Turner’s letter (see Ent. Rec., 89: 252), his modesty will prevent him making certain points which should be offered in his defence. As a non-collector, and one actively concerned with the conservation of British insects, I would like to point out that Mr. Brown is one of a few collectors who fulfil both the letter and spirit of the “Code for Collectors” issued by the Joint Committee for the Conservation of British Insects. Robinson and Heath traps do not, unlike the Rothamsted apparatus, kill “hundreds of moths” if they are properly packed with egg-cartons and operated on _ time-switches. Accidental mortality is of rare occurrence and the number of insects that Mr. Brown collects, whether for breeding or the cabinet, represents a minute fraction of those recorded and released (the numbers listed should not be equated with the number collected! ). He is careful, wherever possible, to secure permission of entry to reserves and private sites, and he has permission to work in several Forestry Commission woodlands. Not all of the Wyre Forest is in F.C. ownership and the original collect- ing ban on their land came in response to petitions from Midland conservationists requesting protection for such day- flying species as aurinia and versicolora (now, alas, no longer recorded there). I have accompanied Messrs. Brown and Gardner on numerous mothing expeditions in Warwickshire and elsewhere and I can assure Mr. Turner that they are not guilty of those practices he understandably deplores. — ROGER SMITH, Chair- man of Conservation Committee, Warwickshire Nature Conservation Trust Limited, Northgate, Warwick CV34 4PB. Dear Sir, I would like to reply to the letter by Mr. N. E. Turner in the September issue, in which he openly criticises a collector Mr. D. C. G. Brown for, in his opinion, apparently operating too many light traps during the season. I am at a loss to understand Mr. Turner’s statement that “normal collecting should be carried out with a tripod lamp and sheet, where a proper degree of selectivity can be prac- tised’’. Why cannot selectivity be practised when operating a trap? My trap merely acccommodates those moths that enter it; it doesn’t kill them, whereas those traps used for “‘genuine scientific research” often do. According to Mr. Turner, collecting from a sheet is acceptable whereas using a trap is not. The fact that an identical light source is used makes nonsense of this statement. Even more ludicrous is his view that traps should only be operated on one’s own property, and yet it is quite in order to run the same equipment elsewhere only with a sheet. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 331 In my opinion, Mr. Turner is engaging in “Collector Bashing”’, something that appears to be in vogue in recent years, and I sympathise with Mr. Brown for what seems to be an unwarranted attack upon his credibility as a collector. — J. PLatts, 11 Maydowns Road, Chestfield, Whitstable, Kent. Dear Sir, I am fully in agreement with Mr. Turner (antea 89: 252) on the way in which Mr. Brown and colleague go about their collecting. Mr. Ron Skipworth, who is Durieston Country Park Warden, told me they entered the area without asking permission, they used an unauthorised road clearly marked as such, and their equipment was smashed not by vandals but by one man who in my view justly put an end to the noise and light by his caravan. This sort of behaviour on the part of Mr. Brown and colleague could before long see widespread banning of m.v. traps. — R. A. BELL, Northwood Lodge, Northwood Park, Sparsholt, near Winchester, Hampshire. Dear Sir, I was interested to read an article in the April issue of The Record by David C. G. Brown entitled “‘Collecting in the hot summer of 1976’’. While deploring the action of the person who damaged Mr. Brown’s equipment, I think it only fair to put forward facts which are not mentioned in the article. On arrival at the Country Park, Mr. Brown did not call on me—either at the Information Centre or at my home. Had he done so he would have been advised of the best places to set up his lamps and generator —certainly not near an occupied caravan. He drove without authorisation down a path where vehicles are not permitted — there are signs giving this information. He also spent the night in his vehicle which is contrary to the bye-laws which state — “‘no vehicle can be parked in the Country Park between sunset and sunrise’’. Trapping and releasing moths in the Country Park is permitted but collecting specimens is not encouraged, although it is agreed that certain knowledge can only be gained by selective collecting. Finally, I did not like the phrase he used — “determined to give Durlston Head a wide berth’. We have many ento- mologists who visit Durlston Country Park again and again, and if Mr. Brown had observed simple courtesies he would have been spared his unfortunate experience. — RON SKIP- worTH, The Warden, Durlston Country Park, Durlston, Swanage, Dorset. 338 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 thes WS bar 4 Notes and Observations EURRHYPARA PERLUCIDALIS HUEBNER (LEP.: PYRALIDAE) IN LINCOLNSHIRE. — On the morning of Ist August, 1977 I noticed in the bottom of a light-trap which Mr. G. M. Haggett had run near damp forest not far from Wragby, central Lin- colnshire, a slightly battered specimen of E. perlucidalis. This appears to be the first record of it in that county. Its British status is not wholly clear. It was first caught by Mere in Woodwalton Fen, Hunts., in 1951, though not identified until 1957. Captures in that and several succeeding years showed that it was resident and fairly common; but I do not know of any report of it there in this decade. It has also been found in Wicken Fen, Cambs.; and in several years in Walbers- wick Marshes in Suffolk, where it was probably also resident. However, some at least of the single recorded captures in Kent, Essex, Norfolk and Hampshire were made in circum- stances which suggest immigration rather than residence. The late H. C. Huggins considered that it was probably a “‘settler”’ species which became established, perhaps only temporarily, by immigration. More information is needed to determine its true status in Britain. — R. F. BRETHERTON, Folly Hill, Birtley Green, Bramley, Guildford, Surrey GU5 OLE. A NOTE ON EURRHYPARA PERLUCIDALIS HUEBNER (LEP.: PYRALIDAE). — Apropos of Mr. Bretherton’s note on E. perlu- cidalis above, this moth has occurred annually in Essex and Norfolk for the past few years, and in 1976 was particularly plentiful very locally at light and on being disturbed from rough vegetation by day. Some years ago I found a number of the larvae on Cirsium oleraceum Scop. in August and Septem- ber in Belgium, in a marshy locality where perlucidalis had long been known to occur. I had thought that the species was breeding in Britain, but since C. oleraceum does not occur where the moth is found, suspected it fed here on some closely allied plant. These suspicions were realised when, early in October 1976, I was rewarded by finding two nearly full-grown larvae on C. arvense Scop. (Creeping Thistle) in Norfolk at the spot where the moth was present in numbers in July that year. One of these larvae died shortly after, but the other after continuing to feed for a while, formed a habitation in a dead blade of grass in which it successfully hibernated and in due course pupated. This summer upon examining the pupa in its habita- tion, I noticed with satisfaction that the imago had partly formed within the pupal case, but on peering closer saw with dismay that the abdomen had been partly eaten by some predator. In places where the moth is known to occur, the larva should be searched for beneath the basal leaves of the food- plant, stretched along the mid-rib under a thin silken covering. NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS 339 Holes in the leaves indicate the presence of a larva. Early September would probably be the best time to look for it in a normal year. For detailed description of the larva see P. Chrétien, in Le Naturaliste for 1893, p. 65 where the species is referred to under commelalis Chrét. — J. M. CHALMERS- HUnr. PEDIACUS DEPRESSUS (HERBST, 1797) (COL.: CUCUJIDAE) NEw TO SCOTLAND. — On the evening of 9th July, 1977 at about 21 30 hrs. my wife tubed a single example of Pediacus depressus aS it walked on the net curtain at the kitchen window of our home at Milton of Campsie, Stirlingshire. Records of this species have been admirably summarised by Mr. A. A. Allen (1956, Ent. mon. Mag., 92: 212), further captures being recorded by Moore (1958, Ent. mon. Mag., 94:92) from Langley, Buckinghamshire, Johnson (1963, Ent. mon. Mag., 99: 209) Knole Park, Kent, and by McNulty (1970, Proc. Brit. ent. nat. Hist Soc., 3 (3):94) from Suffolk (vice- county or locality not mentioned). To these can be added one further Surrey record—Esher, July 18th, 1977, J. A. Owen, one specimen under oak bark. All the above records refer to specimens captured in the wild, exceptionally it has occurred under domestic conditions, LO eexaniple. see. -Fowler. (1889, Col. Brit. Isl, °32297) “... taken by Mr. Wollaston sparingly, among British stores, on board a yacht at Dartmouth.’ Fowler and Donisthorpe G9ts Cal, Brit. Isi., 6. (suppl.): 263) refer, to a-captunean the Sheerness district, in fact the record is for the specmen cap- tured by Donisthorpe in the room of an hotel at Port Victoria. With regards to the Scottish specimen, it is very unlikely that it was breeding in the house, but the possibility cannot be ruled out altogether. The house was built during autumn 1976, and if a breeding nucleus exists, I would have expected to have found more than one example indoors. The beetle is more likely to have flown in by chance and have been captured while trying to escape. The evening of capture was quite warm, with a gentle breeze, on reflection, an ideal night for evening sweeping. At the back of the house, about 30 yards distant is a deciduous wood, predominantly birch but with some oak, including a prostrate trunk visible from the kitchen window. Beyond this is a larch wood and more broad- leaf trees. Many other woods and plantations are in the surrounding area, including Lennox Forest, and not too far away, Mugdock Wood. When my wife brought the beetle to me, it was at once recognised as depressus, being smaller than dermestoides, of more uniform paler coloration and relatively more shining even to the naked eye. The identity was easily confirmed by using the excellent characters given by Mr. Allen (1956, Ent. mon. Mag., 92:212). The photographs illustrating the article by McNulty (1971, Proc. Brit. ent. nat. Hist. Soc., 4 (1): 9) are somewhat confusing as they lack any form of scale, but the relative portion of the basal margin of the pronotum in each species is a useful character. 340 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XII/77 I thank my friends Prof. Owen for allowing me to record the specimen from Esher, and Mr. Allen for confirming my identification. — J. CooTER, Department of Natural History, Art Gallery and Museum, Kelvingrove, Glasgow, G3 8AG. ABUNDANCE OF ECTOEDEMIA SUBBIMACULELLA Haw. (LEP.: NEPTICULIDAE) IN KENT. — During the field meeting of the British Entomological and Natural History Society to North- wood Hill, Halstow, Kent, on the 25th June, 1977, the leader, Mr. M. J. Newcombe and I, happened upon some large oak trees on the higher ground of the reserve, and inspecting a trunk of one, observed several Neps thereon. We saw more, then more, and quickly became aware that the trunk was covered with Neps. Another tree nearby and several others were inspected, and moths in the same profusion found on them also, many in cop. After the excitement of seeing so many, it was decided to do some counting and get a rough estimate of the numbers present. We each counted the moths on a strip of bark approx. one inch wide by six feet in height. Amazingly we both arrived at a figure of twenty-two moths! This gave us around 250 specimens on an area of six square feet. A slight breeze was blowing at the time and the greater proportion of Neps were on the lee side of the trunks. Although we only looked at about seven trees with large numbers of Neps on them, there were many more that could have, and may have had, equally large numbers on their trunks. A genitalia preparation was made of several specimens taken at the time, confirming the identity of the species. — E. S. Braprorp, 6 Maple Court, Drayton Road, Borehamwood, Herts. THE CAMBERWELL BEAUTY IN SOMERSET IN 1977. — One was seen by J. K. Comrie in the North Petherton area on 17th April; it was basking in the sun on some shale. — B. W. Moore, Church Cottage, Batheaston, Bath. OTIORHYNCHUS LIGNEUS OL. (COL.: CURCULIONIDAE) IN PLENTY UNDER A STREET LAMP, ETC. — Contrary to expectation, perhaps, some at least of the largely nocturnal and flightless weevils of the above genus, which pass the daytime under plants or other ground cover, prove to be strongly attracted by artificial light. Their inability to fly, and the resulting unlikelihood of their often entering most types of illuminated trap, doubtless causes this liking to be seldom observed; but an incident that lately occurred to me shows it clearly. On the night of 14th August, happening to pass under a street lamp (m.v.) beside a path near here, I paused to glance at a portion of low rough concrete wall below it, and was Surprised to see—mostly along the top—rather numerous specimens of one of the smaller Otiorhynchi basking in its rays; some motionless, others moving slowly about. A sample brought home showed them to be, as I suspected, O. ligneus NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS 341 Ol.—in this area a species very rare to me up to that time. Among them was a single O. sulcatus F., a much larger species quite common here. In contrast, the vertical faces of the wall on both sides, ill-lit or in deep shadow, had no weevils on them as far as I could see, and the numbers about the top thinned out rapidly to zero well away from the lamp; indicating that the light from it was indeed the real attraction. All or most had probably ascended the wall on its inner side which bounds some plain grass-land, since on its outer side the pavement comes right up to the foot of the wall with only a few tufts of grass, etc., at its very edge. Among the beetles on the wall a number of earwigs (Forficula auricularia L.) were interspersed—this too familiar insect also being fond of artificial light (and, I might add, present here this season in such prodigious quantity as to constitute a veritable plague). The night was windless and overcast. Casual specimens of Otiorhynchus of various species are not seldom found indoors during the summer at least. Of these, some may be brought in with plant roots or garden soil, but I suspect that others gain access by climbing house walls at night and entering windows when open with a bright light showing. O. rugosostriatus Goeze has repeatedly appeared indoors at sundry times and places—much oftener than mere chance could account for*—and O. sulcatus less frequently, though a far commoner species. For a London suburb, the genus is quite respectably represented in this district. Besides sulcatus and ligneus we have rugosostriatus, singularis L. (in part diurnal), ovatus L., and raucus F.—the latter being the rarest with one example hitherto, and all the others but ligneus occurring in my small garden. — A. A. ALLEN, 49 Montcalm Road, Charlton, London, SE7 8QG. * See, for instance, J. M. Chalmers-Hunt, 1960, Ent. Rec., 72:72. Just lately this weevil has twice dropped out of roses I had brought in from the garden—doubtless a source of some of the specimens found indoors. THE STATUS OF THE PURPLE EMPEROR (APATURA IRIS LINN.) IN THE ISLE OF WIGHT. — Goater (The Butterflies and Moths of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, 1974) gives the exact date for only one Purple Emperor on the island, a female in Parkhurst Forest on 2nd August, 1890. From Morey (A Guide to the Natural History of the Isle of Wight, 1909) he quotes four further localities but without specific data, and adds that he has no recent record. Since this species has been extending its range on the mainland for several years, the possibility that it may breed on the island becomes ever more likely, even if it has not done so hitherto. It seems worth while, therefore, to publish recent sightings, if only to alert visiting lepidopterists to the existence _ of the problem. Mr. Andy Keay, Warden of the Eee are and Isle of Wight Naturalists’ Trust Reserve at Stag Copse, near Newport, 342 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XII/77 reports that he and two young people watched a specimen of A. iris sunning itself on a bramble leaf in the copse at 0840 hrs. BST on 16th July, 1977. Mr. Keay made four further visits in the ensuing week, but without success. As a result of his report, I contacted Mr. O. H. Frazer of Mottistone Mill, Brighstone, who tells me that he and his wife saw a Purple Emperor near their home at 1600 hrs. BST on 28th June, 1952. On each occasion the observer mentions being struck by the purple sheen on the insect, thus identifying it as a male. I have visited both these localities, and although neither are ideal breeding grounds for A. iris, this seems of little significance since distances on the island are so small, and each is in close proximity to an area which looks quite suit- able. Mr. Frazer tells me that a diligent search was made for larvae in Parkhurst Forest in 1954 and 1955 by Mr. J. Lobb, without success; but it does seem likely that the pleasure of adding the Purple Emperor to the Isle of Wight list of breeding butterflies is there for the taking by a lepidopterist with the requisite skill, diligence and luck. — D. W. H. FFENNELL, Martyr Worthy Place, nr. Winchester, Hampshire. A NOTE FROM NORFOLK AND GUERNSEY. — The season in Norfolk was very late this year. At Hickling during the first week in August, Phragmataecia castaneae (Hbn.) was still out in plenty, and a single example of Mythimna obsoleta (Hbn.) was noted, the latest I have ever seen them. Stathmopoda pedella (L.) was frequent on alder leaves, and a few came to m.v. light. The only migrant noted was a single worn Celerio lineata (Esp.) on the night of 3rd/4th August. I have just commenced trapping in Guernsey. There is ample opportunity for recording here, particularly the micro- lepidoptera which have not been updated since the days of Luff 50 years ago. At this time (mid-October) the commonest Noctuid is Trigonophora flammea (Esp.) with up to 25 examples in one night to m.v. It has been recorded on the island, from the local Horticultural Research Station, since 1971, and is undoubtedly resident. English entomologists should be on the look out for it, and it would be interesting to know its status on the adjacent French coast. — Dr. TiN... Peer, Le Cheme, Forest; Guemsey; C1 A FURTHER RECORD OF INFURCITINEA ARGENTIMACULELLA STAINT. (LEP.: TINEIDAE) IN KENT. — On the 9th of July, 1977, whilst on my way to Faversham Creek to search for species of the Gelechiidae, I happened to espy the spire of St. Mary of Charity Parish Church of Faversham. I had seen the spire a number of times, but on this particular occasion wondered whether there were mossy walls in the churchyard, where I might find larvae or imagos of any of the moss-feeding species of the Gelechiidae. I did find moss and lichen on the walls, but no evidence of the Gelechiidae. What I did find was larvae of I. argenti- NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS 343 maculella Staint. The area colonised by this species is a damp wall of several square yards containing moss and lichen, and on which there were numerous meandering larval tubes. I scraped away a patch of lichen, gathered some larvae, and took them home, hoping to breed out a few moths. I have since been surprised and dismayed by the number of parasites that have emerged. The final count was one moth, and fifteen parasites. This amazed me, as the amount of lichen I took home covered a space of about six inches by six inches. There must have been many more larvae embedded in the lichen. I have only once encountered but one parasite of J. argentimaculella, and that from a larva taken at Folkestone some years ago. Two weeks later I visited the wall again and found one solitary moth. The evidence on the wall seemed to suggest fle colony to be quite vigorous, but it looks as if there might have been a population crash; and next year may see very few moths at all, if the small patch of lichen I took home is any indication. — E. S. BRADFORD, 6 Maple Court, Drayton Road, Boreham- wood, Herts. A BILATERAL GYNANDROMORPH OF SCOTOPTERYX CHENO- PODIATA (L.) (SHADED BROAD-BAR) IN SUSSEX. — On the 29th July, 1977, I caught a halved gynandromorph of S. cheno- podiata on the downs near Seaford, the left side being wholly male and the right side wholly female. The specimen is in good condition. My attention was drawn to the gynandromorph as it fluttered to rest in the grass beside me and closed its wings, showing a colour contrast between the two sides. — R. M. CRASKE, 29 Salisbury Road, Hove, East Sussex. AGONUM GRACILIPES DUFT. (COL.: CARABIDAE) IN SUSSEX, AND ITS DELETION FROM THE [IRISH List. — My friend Mr. P. J. Hodge (who already has to his credit the addition of Magdalis memnonia Gyll. to our list, and other highly notable captures) took and correctly identified a specimen, which I have seen, of the above ground-beetle at m.v. light at Ringmer, near Eastbourne, 8.vii.75. A. gracilipes, one of our two very rare species of Agonum, has its headquarters on the Suffolk coast about Lowestoft, where it has been taken singly, often at longish intervals, from 1831 to the first decade or so of this century and possibly later; and might probably still be found there occasionally if worked for. It has occurred also on the Norfolk coast at Yarmouth, and perhaps on that of Yorkshire at Hornsea (cf. Fowler, 1887, Col. Brit. Isl., 1:91; Fowler & Donisthorpe, 1913, ibid., 6: 207). Moore (v. inf.) marks it also for Cambs., but I feel that this should be queried, and his indication for Yorks. certainly should be. Claude Morley (1898, Ent. mon. Mag., 34: 221-3) gave a history of the species in Britain up to that date. Its occurrence for the first time on or near the south coast is interesting, particularly if it results from, or heralds, an extension of the very restricted British range of this Agonum; but, of course, the beetle might equally have been a casual immigrant or wanderer. 344 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XI1/77 Morley (.c.: 222) drew attention to an Irish record of A. gracilipes (Ardara, Co. Donegal), which he was inclined to doubt—with reason, since it was later withdrawn as having been erroneously based on a specimen of A. muelleri Hbst. (Johnson & Halbert, 1902, A List of the Beetles of Ireland: 579). From what is said there it appears there was also a record for Armagh by Johnson, which I cannot trace, but the point is now of no consequence. What is important is to delete the indication of A. gracilipes as Irish in Moore, 1957, Ent. Gaz., 8 (3):179 (species 228), this being the definitive work on British Carabid distribution and widely used. For this mistake I fear I was—in all innocence! —partly responsible, since in earlier correspondence with Dr. Moore I had pointed out to him the existence of the Irish record; remarking on its interest if genuine, but counselling due caution in accepting it. Unfortunately at that time neither of us was aware that a correction had been published! — A. A. ALLEN. INSECT FAUNA OF BUDDLEIA DAVIDII. — Mr. Antram’s record (Ent. Record, September 1977) of the larvae of Cucullia verbasci L. feeding on Buddleia davidii prompts me to report that in July 1977 I too found the larvae of this moth on Buddleia in my garden at Leicester. In a recent article (Country Life, 1st September, 1977) I outlined the history of Buddleia davidii in Britain. The bush was introduced from China about 80 years ago and, as every entomologist knows, its flowers are extremely attractive to butterflies, moths, bees, hoverflies, and many other nectar- feeding insects. Buddleia belongs to a family of plants unre- presented in the native British flora and we would therefore not expect its leaves to be palatable to many species of moth larvae. But records are beginning to accumulate suggesting that several species have switched to it. In addition to C. verbasci, | have found larvae of the following species feeding on the leaves: Melanchra persicariae (L.), Orthosia stabilis (Denis & Schiffermiller), Phlogophora meticulosa (L.), Poly- mixis flavicincta (Denis & Schiffermller), and Odonoptera bidentata (Clerck). In collaboration with colleagues at Oxford, I have this year initiated a small research project aimed at assessing the importance of Buddleia to the British insect fauna. I would thus be glad to receive all records of insects (other than nectar- feeders) found eating the leaves, flowers, stems, or seeds of Buddleia davidii. — D. F. OWEN, 66 Scraptoft Lane, Leicester, LES THAW. THE DEATH’S HEAD HAWKMOTH (ACHERONTIA ATROPOS L.): A SweeT ADVENTURE? — Recently, September 1977, I had occasion to have my generator and m.y. equipment tested at a firm in Guildford which I have patronised for this purpose for some time. The foreman who knows my interests, men- tioned that a member of their staff had a huge moth come into their house at nearby Normandy. The young lady, Mrs. Carol Chitty, was duly summoned and told me how in the NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS 345 autumn of 1976 she was about to go to bed when she noticed a huge insect at rest by the fireplace in their living room. It was duly captured and contact was made with Haslemere Museum who pronounced it to be a Death’s Head; but it later transpired that its arrival, probably down the chimney, was due to a wild bees nest being lodged in it. Doubtless this insect had in some way been attracted to this source of sweet- ness which has often been recorded in the literature, but this is the first time I have had direct evidence of this phenomenon. It has even been said that the high-pitched whistle which the moth emits, has a mesmerising effect on the bees, but this theory is very problematical. Incidentally, the specimen in question had its portrait in the Surrey Advertiser, and it is still preserved by its captors. C. G. M. DE Worms, Three Oaks, Shores Road, Woking, Surrey. A NOTE FROM Dover. — I was pleased to find one male Lithophane leautieri Boisd. in my trap last night. It is certainly spreading. Also of interest is a Palpita unionalis Hbn. that came to my trap on 11th October, the first I have had here for ten years. On the 19th October last, a Dioryctria abietella D. & S. came to my trap. This species has always puzzled me. It is usually out in July/August; the latest date I have pre- viously recorded it being 26th August. This latest specimen isa small one; -al..ecx. 2:2) ‘cm. —= G. HH. YOupEN,' 18 ‘Castle Avenue, Dover, CT16 1EZ, Kent, 22.x.1977. SOME REMARKS ON LYTTA VESICATORIA L. (COL.: MELOIDAE) IN BriTAIN. — Apropos of the Editor’s record of this striking beetle in Kent some 40 years ago (antea: 198), it may be worth recalling that there was an “outbreak”’ of the species, likewise in the Canterbury district (Stourmouth), in July 1948—as reported by the late Dr. A. M. Massee in the annals of the Kent Field Club (ref. not to hand). The beetles swarmed on a privet hedge enclosing a tennis court, and were, I understand, in such numbers as to cause annoyance to the players, in consequence of which Dr. Massee’s professional advice was sought. A year or so later they had quite disap- peared. This is the last British occurrence of the “‘Spanish fly” in quantity that I know of, though there have since been one or two isolated captures elsewhere. Although it is generally assumed that the status of Lytta vesicatoria in Britain is that of a casual visitor from the Continent which occasionally breeds very freely for a season or two in a particular locality, it seems never to have been noted in the act of immigration despite its very conspicuous and unmistakable appearance. On the other hand there is some evidence that a minimal resident population may persist year after year—perhaps indefinitely—in certain localities favoured by the insect, where it has appeared often at long intervals but sometimes in profusion. There seem to be two main areas, a southern and an eastern, in which the outbreaks have mostly been concentrated: S. Hants. (including Isle of Wight) west- 346 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 15/XI1/77 ward into Dorset, and N. Essex through Suffolk into Cambs. The latter of these areas of distribution now evidently requires to be extended southward to N.E. Kent. It further seems very possible that during periods of scarcity the beetles live rather high up—beyond the reach of the ordinary beating-stick—in some of the larger ash trees*, so that only stragglers, at most, would probably ever be seen; and that only after a build-up in their numbers do they spread to related shrubs such as privet and lilac, where, naturally, they soon attract attention. The larva has been found here perhaps only once, in Suffolk, but as an inhabitant of the underground nests of certain solitary bees it would in any event be seldom observed. — A. A. ALLEN. * The late Horace Donisthorpe told me that he obtained his series in an East Anglian locality where it had occurred in the past, by spread- ing very large sheets under a suitable-looking ash and jarring the boughs and foliage with a long pole. LASIOCAMPA QUERCUS SSP. CALLUNAE PALMER (NORTHERN EGGAR) ATTRACTED BY CITRONELLA? — On the 12th July I took a lady visitor to the top of Tallabrig on the low hill on the island of Sanday to see the view of other islands and also inspect the Z. purpuralis colony nearby. Being stockingless, she had anointed her ankles with citronella to repel the midges. To our surprise a male L. quercus (callunae) came up, circled around and landed on her feet, around which it fluttered, apparently attracted by the odour of the citronella. — J. L. CAMPBELL, Isle of Canna, Scotland. OBSERVATIONS ON THE PUPAL STAGE OF THE PURPLE HAIR- STREAK (THECLA QUERCUS L.). — In 1976 and 1977 I reared a small number of Purple Hairstreaks (Thecla quercus) from larvae collected on Inchcailloch, part of the Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve. Particular attention was paid to the length of the pupation period, as there is a general lack of agreement in the entomological literature on this aspect of the butterfly’s life history. As examples: ‘‘a fortnight or so” (Rowland-Brown, 1912), “‘20 days’? (Acworth, 1947), ‘about 30 days’? (Frohawk, 1934), “‘about 36 days’ (Sanders, 1939). It is noteworthy that most of the early standard works are silent on the subject. Just prior to the onset of metamorphosis, all of the captive larvae went beneath the surface of the pupating mixture provided, there taking about 2-3 days to achieve the final pupal state. Following a cool June/early July in West Scotland during 1976, the butterflies emerged 22 days after the larvae had begun the pre-pupal stage, but with much warmer weather over the same period in 1977 the complete metamorphosis from larva to butterfly was unexpectedly prolonged by a further 4-5 days. Similar observations have been made by Dr. C. J. Luckens of Southampton, who also reared a number of T. quercus in 1976 (Ent. Rec., 89: 170) and 1977. In southern Britain, however, the weather pattern during the pupation NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS 347 periods of both years was reversed, being warm in 1976 and cool in 1977, the butterflies emerging after 21-25 days and 17-21 days respectively (Dr. C. J. Luckens in litt.). It would appear therefore that air temperature can _ significantly influence the duration of the pupal stage of T. quercus, and may account for the wide differences of opinion given by the authors cited above. References: (1) Acworth, B., 1947. Butterfly Miracles and Mysteries, London. (2) Frohawk, F. W., 1934. The Complete Book of British Butterflies, London. (3) Rowland- Brown, H., 1912. Butterflies and Moths at Home and Abroad, London. (4) Sanders, E., 1939. A Butterfly Book for the Pocket, London. — J. MircHELL, 22 Muirpark Way, Drymen, Glasgow, G63 0DX. : LEPIDOPTERA IN Co. Mayo. — On 10th June, 1977, while collecting lepidoptera with Mr. B. K. West on some Burren- type terrain about two miles south of Partry, Co. Mayo, among the more interesting species noted were: Zygaena purpuralis Brunnich (several), Photedes captiuncula Tr., Platyptilia tesseradactyla L., Aethes piercei Obraztsov, Leucop- tera lotella Stainton and Glyphipterix schoenicolella Boyd. Beating juniper produced larvae of Thera cognata Thunb., from which we bred numerous moths. — J. M. CHALMERS- Hunt. FOODPLANT OF THE JUNIPER PUG (EUPiTHECIA PUSILLATA D. & S.=SOBRINATA Hpn.). — Both Allan (Larval Food plants) and South (Moths of the British Isles) give juniper as the only foodplant of the pug of that name, although the latter remarks that the moth is sometimes noted in localities where juniper appears to be absent. It is perhaps worth recording that while staying at North Kessock on the Moray Firth this August, E. pusillata was one of the commonest visitors to m.v. although I could find no juniper in the area. — R. G. CHATELAIN, 65 East Drive, Orpington, Kent. OVA OF THE COMMON SWIFT MotH: HEPIALUS LUPULINUS Lrnnatius. — I notice with some surprise, in Vol. 1 of “The Moths and Butterflies of Great Britain and Ireland’’, that the ova of Hepialus lupulinus are “‘not known’’. This must surely be because no one has bothered to record so common a species. The ova, which are slightly ovoid in shape, are broadcast by the female and, when laid, are a clear, shining white. Within an hour they have turned grey and after 4-6 hours are pure black. They remain like this for 8-10 days and then become slightly paler again before the larva hatches. They therefore follow a similar pattern to that of the other Hepialus species. Two females which I took laid c. 80 ova within half an hour, but anyone who wishes to obtain ova of the species has only to examine the bottom of his m.v. trap after taking the appropriate females. —- GEOFFREY N. Burton, ‘‘Mar-y- Mar’’, Minster Drive, Minster-in-Sheppey, Kent, ME12 2NG. 348 ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD, VOL. 89 £5 (oily 77 AGONOPTERIX CAPREOLELLA ZELLER (LEP.: OECOPHORIDAE) AND MOMPHA LACTEELLA STEPH. (LEP.: MOMPHIDAE) IN KENT. — I have single specimens of these two local and perhaps rare species which I have never before recorded until now. The capreolella I netted among the short turf on the downs above Otford on the afternoon of 29th April, 1967, and suspecting it might be this, I submitted it to Dr. J. D. Bradley who kindly confirmed the determination genitalically. I am not aware of any previous record of capreolella for Kent. The lacteella | netted in Kiln Wood, near Lenham, on the afternoon of 19th June, 1967. It was flying in the sun and is in excellent condi- tion. I know of no other confirmed record of this species for Kent. (The record in Scott, Lep. of Ashford (1964), p. 77, is doubtful.) — J. M. CHALMERS-HUNT. THE CAMBERWELL BEAUTY IN YORKSHIRE IN 1977. — Mr. J. Dixon, a member of the Grange-over-Sands Natural History Society, saw a Nymphalis antiopa L. at aubretia at Burley in Wharfedale on Ist May, 1977. — D. W. Kypp, 6 Yewbarrow Road, Ulverstone, Cumbria. [This appears to be the fourteenth post-hibernated antiopa noted in Britain in 1977. — Editor. ] NYMPHALIS POLYCHLOROS L. IN FOLKESTONE. — On the 23rd August, 1977 a single Large Tortoiseshell in perfect condition appeared on the buddleias in our garden on the Leas in Folkestone, remaining there most of the day, together with ten Inachis io, five Cynthia cardui, and several Aglais urticae. The 23rd August was an absolutely perfect, sunny, windless day, but the day before had been very bad with 1.95 inch of rain and a very strong south-east wind, which I think must have brought the polychloros in from France. The 24th August was again very bad with a terrible south-west gale and rain and the polychloros was never seen again. — B. C. S. Warren, F.R.E.S., 31 Clifton Crescent, Flat 2, Folkestone, Kent. The Camberwell Beauty in August and September 1977 IN MIDDLESEX. — One of my students, Clive Harper, told me that on 27th August, 1977, at about 4.15 in the afternoon, he saw “a large, dark-coloured butterfly with pale margins to the wings’ flying on Northwood Golf Course, Middlesex. When he was shown the drawer of Nymphalidae in the school collection, he immediately pointed to Nymphalis antiopa and said he was certain that was the butterfly he had seen. I see no reason to doubt this record. — B. GOATER, 22 Reddings Avenue, Bushey, Herts., WD2 3PB. In Kent. — On the afternoon of Wednesday, 7th Septem- _ber, I saw a butterfly here in my garden that I had not seen before. It was sunny at the time, the butterfly was quite large, brown with a creamy-yellow edge to its wings. After looking at the books I realised that it must have been a Camberwell Beauty and that I was very lucky to see it. — EUNICE CHANDLER ees 2 Rusland Avenue, Orpington, Kent, BR6 8AU, Ort OF FL ENTOMOLOGICAL CABINETS We are the sole manufacturers of ‘HILL’ INTERCHANGEABLE UNIT SYSTEMS 10 drawer Standard units 20 drawer Oxford units GRANGE AND GRIFFITHS LIMITED Scientific Cabinet Makers Woodstock Works, 239 Hanworth Road Hounslow, Middlesex, TW3 3UA, England Telephone: 01-570 0426 and 01-570 3209 ODONATA SURVEY: North Hampshire and Berkshire At the suggestion of Mrs. Beth Savan, who has been working for the Nature Conservancy this year on a survey of the distribution of Odonata in the two vice-counties, it has been decided to set up a long-term project to plot their distribution on an O.S. grid basis. The survey is initially being conducted by Graham Vick and David Keen, but it is hoped that other enthusiasts will come forward to assist. Despite the popularity of these vice-counties amongst entomologists generally, it is most noticeable that they are at present very much under-recorded. Many 10 km. squares have no Odonata records at all and most have only a few. We should be most grateful if any entomologist with records for the area would send them to the address below giving, where possible: (i) the species; (ii) the name of the locality and description where relevant; (iii) the date of the record; (iv) an indication of the commonness of the species at the locality; (v) whether imago or larva; was oviposition witnessed?; and (vi) the grid reference (if possible) four or six figure. If all these are not possible, please write nevertheless. All records will help. Even better, why not join us? Graham Vick, “Crossfields”, Little London, near Basingstoke, Hants. (Telephone: Basingstoke 850718) EXCHANGES AND WANTS Records Wanted. — I am currently up-dating my card-index list of lepidoptera records for Cumbria with a view to early publication of a modern list. Any records from any part of Cumbria would be gratefully received and duly acknowledged. Particularly desirable are records of microlepidoptera and any from remote and relatively unknown parts of the district. — Dr. N. L. Birkett, Kendal Wood, New Hutton, Kendal, Cumbria, LA$ 0AQ. For Sale. — We hold a few copies of a large number of separates of papers that have appeared in the Record. These are available at reasonable prices. — Please advise your requirements to: P. A. Sokoloff, 4 Steep Close, Orpington, Kent, BR6 6DS. For Sale. — Separates of Col. Emmet’s ‘“‘Notes on the British Nepticulidae”’. Unbound, with printed paper cover. Price 90p, including postage. — Apply to P. A. Sokoloff, 4 Steep Close, Orpington, Kent, BR6 6DS. THE ENTOMOLOGIST’S RECORD AND JOURNAL OF VARIATION (Founded by J. W. TUTT on 15th April, 1890) The following gentlemen act as Honorary Consultants to the magazine: Orthoptera: D. K. Mc E. Kevan, Ph.D., B.Sc., F.R.E.S.; Coleoptera: A. A. ALLEN, B.Sc.; Diptera: E. C. M. d’Assis-FonsEca, F.R.E.S. TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS All material for the TEXT of the magazine as well as books for review must be sent to the EDITOR at St. Teresa, 1 Hardcourts Close, West Wickham, Kent. ADVERTISEMENTS, EXCHANGES and WANTS to: E. H. WILD, L.Inst.Biol., 112 Foxearth Road, Selsdon, Croydon, Surrey, CR2 8EF. Specimen copies supplied by Mr. Wild on payment of 60p or sterling equivalent which will be taken into account if the person in question becomes a full subscriber, plus 10p postage. Enquiries regarding Back Numbers, Volumes and Sets to: P. A. SOKO- LOFF, 4 Steep Close, Orpington, Kent, BR6 6DS. Changes of address to: S. N. A. JACOBS, 54 Hayes Lane, Bromley, Kent BR2 9EE. Subscriptions should be sent to the Treasurer, P. J. RENSHAW, 53 Links Road, West Wickham, Kent BR4 0QN, England. REPRINTS: 25 copies, taken straight from the magazine are sent gratis to contributors of articles; these may contain extraneous matter. More formal reprints from re-set type may still be had at cost price, and orders for these should be given, at the latest, with the return to the Editor of the corrected proof. ILLUSTRATIONS are inserted on condition that the AUTHOR DEFRAYS THE COST. Contributors are requested not to send us Notes or Articles which they are sending to other magazines. All reasonable care is taken of MSS, photographs, drawings, maps, etc., but the Editor and his staff cannot hold themselves responsible for any loss or damage. SPECIAL NOTICE The Editor would be willing to consider the purchase of a limited number of certain back issues. Printed by Charles Phipps Ltd., 225 Philip Lane, Tottenham, N15 4HL CONTENTS A New Species of the Phasis thero (L.) Group rei pana pe from the Roggeveld Escarpment. C. G. C. DICKSON . April in the Highlands, 1977. P. M. STIRLING é Mycetophila strigatoides (Landrock): an Overlooked British Fungus Gnat (Diptera: Mycetophilidae). P. J. CHANDLER _.... : Corfu Butterflies in Spring 1977. Maj. Gen. C. G. LIPSCOMB Eucosma metzneriana Treitschke (Lep.: Tortricidae): a Species New to the British List. R. J. REVELL . The Glanville Fritillary (Melitaea cinxia L.) in Gloucestershire. ane GREEN . Artificial Chambers for Wood-associated Sesiid Larvae. “COLIN PRAY: The Genetics of East African Lepidoptera — XIV. | D. G. SEVAS- TOPULO be Notice to Subscribers Letters to the Editor Notes and Observations: Beginner’s Luck. Coscinia cribraria L. ssp. arenaria Lempke (Lep.: Arctiidae) in Kent. G. N. BURTON . Eumichtis lichenea Hbn. on the North Kent Coast. J. PLATTS A Third British Specimen of Pammene luedersiana (Sorhagen) E. C. PELHAM-CLINTON oe Biston betularia L. ab. carbonaria Jordan and other Lepidoptera in Ireland in 1976 and 1977. K. G. M. oF A Case Against the Automobile. COLIN PRATT att A recent Occurrence of Phyllotreta vittata F. (= sinuata auct. Brit.) (Col.: Chrysomelidae). A. A. ALLEN a Eurrhypara perlucidalis Hbn. (Lep:. Pyralidae) in Lincolnshire. R. F. BRETHERTON . A note on Eurrhypara perlucidalis Hbn. (ep: Pyralidae). J. M. CHALMERS-HUNT Pediacus depressus (Herbst, 1797). (Col.: ; “ Cucujidae) ‘New to Scotland. J. COOTER ... The Camberwell Beauty in Somerset in 1977. B. W. MOORE . Otiorhynchus ligneus Ol. (Col.: Curculionidae) in plenty under a street lamp, etc. A. A. ALLEN | ... The Status of the Purple Emperor (A patura iris [Be in the Isle of Wight. D. W. H. FFENNELL _...... A Note from Norfolk and Guernsey. Dr. T. N. D. PEET . A Further Record of Infurcitinea argentimaculella Staint. (Lep.: Tineidae) in Kent. E. S. BRADFORD : A Bilateral Gynandromorph of Scotopteryx chenopodiata cE (Shaded Broad-bar) in Sussex. R. M. CRASKE Agonum gracilipes Duft. (Col.: Carabidae) in Sussex, and its deletion from the British List. A. A. ALLEN Insect Fauna of Buddleia davidii. D. F. OWEN . The Death’s Head Hawkmoth (Acherontia artopos Ey “a Sweet Adventure? C. G. M. de WORMS . : Les. A Note from Dover. G. H. YOUDEN . Some Rermarks .on Lytta vesicatoria L. ‘(Col.: ’ Meloidae) in Britain. A. A. ALLEN . ! Lasiocampa quercus ssp. callunae Palmer (Northern “Eggar) attracted by Citronella. J. L. CAMPBELL . Observations on the aes Stage of the Purple Hairstreak (Thecla quercus L.). J. MITCHELL . Lepidoptera in Co. Mayo. J. M. CHALMERS-HUNT . Foodplant of the Juniper Pug (Eupithecia pusillata D. (235 sobrinata Hbn.). R. G. CHATELAIN . Ova of the Common Swift Moth: Hepialus lupulinus M Es N. BURTON ... A gonopterix capreolella i (Lep.: Oecophoridae) ‘and Mompha lacteella Steph. (Lep.: Momphidae) in Kent. J. M. CHALMERS-HUNT _. The Camberwell Beauty in Yorkshire in 1977. D. W. KYDD . Nymphalis polychloros L. in Folkestone. B. C. S. WARREN . The Camberwell Beauty in Middlesex in August 1977. B. GOATER .. The Camberwell Beauty in Kent in September 1977. Mrs. EUNICE CHANDLER . Current Literature ... Me 317 320 323 326 329 331 333 335 335 336 322 325 328 328 330 332 338 338 339 340 340 341 342 342 343 343 344 344 345 345 346 346 347 347 347 348 348 348 348 348 319 The Entomologist’s Record and Journal of Variation SPECIAL INDEX For British Lepidoptera this Index follows the nomenclature of ‘“‘A Check List of British Insects”, Part 2, 1972 by Kloet & Hincks. Where the contributor has used a synonym, a cross reference is given. Any newly described taxa (species, genera, etc.) are distinguished by bold (Clarendon) type, and taxa new to the British fauna by an asterisk. Moreover, (1) A bracketed asterisk denotes the reinstatement of a species long omitted from the British list, or the confirmation of one previously doubtful; (2) A formerly subspecific taxon raised to specific rank is treated as an addition to the fauna, but a correction of identity is not; and, finally (3) The “equals” sign indicates a new synonymy, i.e. published for the first time; italics without this sign, recent synonymy that may be unfamiliar Vol. 89, 1977 PAGE to many. LEPIDOPTERA abbreviata (Eupithecia) 113, 150, abietana (Acleris) abietella (Dioryctria) abruptaria (Menophra) absinthiata (Eupithecia) absinthii (Cucullia) acaciae (Nordmannia) acanthadactyla (Amblyptilia) ..... ACCES (SLISIIENA) sasecievcss one 00s sce BGiaad (SAUy HIN aeeies iczci es sais acteon (Thymelicus) ... 110, 238, acroxantha (Parocystola) peace adippe (Argynnis) .. 50, 109, 111, MP2 2185265, 278. admetus (Agrodiaetus) adusta (Blepharita) ........... 16, adustata (Ligdia) .. 114, 115, 188, advenaria (Cepphis) Se aes aesena (Parage) .. 3, 18, 22, 50, i. 219, 256, 281, 295, aescularia (Alsophila) aethiops (Erebia) .. 85, 203, 289, eee ees cere ates esses eee eee ese seees re eee eeseceses eres eee ees eeeeeses eeeeeesseses affinis (Cosmia) affiinitata (Perizoma) agamemnon (Graphium) eeosecesese agathina (Xestia) ........ De Bille agenjoi (Agrodiaetus) ............... agestis (Aricia) .. 3, 51, 171, 172, 28h, 327: BPCtES (GEADMIUM) 272.2 ...000c0ce000. aglaja (Argynnis) ... 50, 71, 110, 142, 207, 2475219; 236;.:280, alacella (Acanthophila) albicans (Lysandra) .................. albicillata (Mesoleuca) ...... 116, albicolon (Siderides) ............ 36, albifasciella (Ectodemia) ...... LS. albimacula (Hadena) ................ albipuncta (Mythimna) .. 20, 40, 119 albipunctata (Cyclophora) ... 114. PAGE albovenosa (Simiyra) 25.04. se aly albula (Meganola) ......... 37, 42, 315 albulata (Perizoma) ........... 175; 216 alceae (Carcharodus) 73.0.24. 282 alcestis (Agriodiaetus) ............... 267 alcetas (Everes) ... 108, 111, 112, 281 alchemillata (Perizoma) ............ 216 alciphron (Lycaena) ......... 108, 281 alcyone (Hipparchia) ... 11, 266, 281 alexis (Glaucopsyche) ... 108, 281, 9,°300, 327 algirica (Hipparchia) ............... 266 allous -GArieia) \ ios oes eee eee 281 alni (Acronicta) ... 87, 114, 115, 312 alniaria (Ennomos) MO Se 232 alpicola. | CWestiail*. 2.0 288 alsines: (Hoplodrina)'#33./0252. 2408 87 alstroemeriana (Agonopterix) .... 63 alternaria (Semiothisa) ...... 14, 144 alternata (Epirrhoe) ......... ZUG, 232 alveus. (Pyros) een ee eee 281 amandus (Plebicula) ... 109, 281, 303 amassa., (Zeltus) (23029 st 2eyk ee 139 amathaon (Amathuxidia) .......... 138 ambigua (Hoplodrina) ... 36, 74, 175, 214, 264 amphrysus (Troides) ............. 2186 anceps (Peridea) ......... 67,' LI4A215 angustea’ (Eudoria) (252) a see 73 angustella (Alispa). \J....- 00. cates 76 annulatella (Rhigognastis) ......... 70 anomala (Stilbia) ............ 75, 188 antemarginata (Stictoptera) ...... 157 anteros’ (ATicia) v.00 Ln ee 267 anthelea (Pseudochazara) ......... 266 anthraciniformis (Conopia) .. 192, 223 antiopa (Nymphalis) .. 44, 50, 54, 89, 155, 187, 235, 240, 248, 279, 2805289. 303346) 327: 340, 348 antiphates (Graphium) ...... 138, 139 antiqua (Oreyia) he) eee 74 apollo (Parnassius) ... 109, 110, 278, 280, 303 PAGE aprilina (Dichonia) ...... 80, 176, 214, 247, 288 arcania (Coenonympha) ..... 111, 281 arduimmna.(Melitaca)s-- 24... -2-2 5-22 266 arenella (Agonopterix) ............. 73 areola (Xylocampa) ... 87, 113, 213, 214 arethusa (Arethusana) ............. et argentimaculella (Infurcitinea) 543 argiades (Everes) .. 50, 281, 299, 303 argiolus (Celastrina) ...... Sh 055 108; 121) 171, 214, 220) 238, 281, 303 argus (Plebejus) ... 216, 236, 237, 2382 267, 2615302 argyropeza (Ectodemia) ............ 24 arion (Maculinia) ......... 32, 267, 26) armigera (Helicoverpa) ... 18, 20, 74, 82 armoricanus (Pyrgus) ............... 51 artaxerxes (Aricia) ............ 2183, 287 ashworthii (CXestia), sic..:.0..025605. Zit asinalis (Mecyna) ............... AB TO aspasia j(Dariaus)i(.02. ..tevetancereseet 136 aspersana Acleris) qptii/2...-2n¢ 405.73 asteris(i(Cucullia) (2.cces025 25. 188, 314 asurancAthyma) icveie. sence ese 139 atalanta (Vanessa) ... 3, 18, 20, 9. 550)353. 54, 69, 84, 85, 90, i, 119, 120, 152, 208. pas 234, 235) Bhi 280, 289, 295.326 athalia (Mellicta) ... 50, 108, 111, 17239233,.278;5.280 athamus. CPolyastay py jechaet ae fee 138 atlites: CPLECIS) ioe Aocks Beene 137 atomaria (Ematurga) ... 37, 220, 2817332 atricapitella (Stigmella) ........... 15 atricomella (Elachista) ............. 73 atropos (Acherontia) ..... 20; 38; 41, 53, 78, 84, 152, 224, 289. 314, 344 augur (Graphiphora) ................ 311 aurago (Xanthia) .. 87, 118, 174, 188 aurana (Cydia) (sh: i553 kh eee eee 76 aurinia (Euphydryas) .... 50, 72, 170; 171,472; 266, ae 288, 302, 303, 336 auritella (Stigmella) .................. 64 ansonia: (Buchloe yess seco eses 300 australis (Aporophila) ....... 118, 199 australis (Colias) ............... 110, 280 autumnaria (Ennomos) ... 13, 54, 118 avellana (Apoda) ............... 79, 174 ' aversata (Idaea) ......... 144, 175, 217 badiana’ (Ancylis); 246 sere ee 73 badiata (Anticlea) ............. 132 283 badiella (Depressaria) ............... 73 badiipennella (Coleophora) .. 21 Daja OXestia) 3 ee oss 144 baliodactyla (Pterophora) ......... 12 bamptoni (Aloeides) ................. 209 PAGE bankiana *'(Delfole) .2c.2Yeceeee-s- ==: 116 barkeri (Puchtys@ps) «....<:2:35-2.-5. 253 barrettii (H. luteago) bathseba (Pyronia) ..... 109, 110, 300 bathyeles (Graphium) ............... 139 Paton “CP hi@des)'".7. 5... o se 267,299 beatricella (Lozopera) ......... 63, 208 belia .CAnthoeharis) 2. se.c22e ee 280 belfadonia “((Oelias) (oie ese ee 137 bellargus (Lysandra) ...... 4, 108, 109° S71, 232, 238. 281, 299, 300, 301, 302, 303 bembeciformis (Sphecia) PEE inde? 334 bananderella (aera ANS cart 5 182 berbera (Amphipyra) . 9 145716 bersaniniana) (Croesia)\..5--2+52-5552- 70 berkardus (Charaxes): s..02:5 ceseeee 138 betulae’ Giheela)e:A<.3.. 0, 281, 316 betulana: (Agehips) << ..4.c0.--ce oe 224 betularia (Biston) ...... L175; 215; S28 beulah.(Poeceiimitisy ....ccccssscaes6> 25 biangulata (Euphyia) ............... 328 bicolorata .Galeécatera)\\is327%5. 22 116 bicoloria (Leucodonta) ............. 224 bicruris (Hadena) ........ 71, 216, 289 bicuspis (Harpyia) ............... S2i1F. bidentata (Odontopera) ...... 215, 344 bifaciata, (Perizoma)\ te Sit bifida «CHarpyia) 2.2. 115, 143 bilineata (Camptogramma) ... 4, 71 bimaculata (Lomographa) ......... 114 binaria (Drepana) ...... 114, 144, 217, 21954232 bipunctidactyla (Stenoptilia) ...... 70 biren (Lacanobia) ............ 115, 242 biriviata (Xanthorhoe) ............. 80 biselata.(idaea).<... | eae as 219 bistriatella (Apomyelois) ........... 159 bistortata (Ectropis) ... 113, 144, 17534320 blandiata.. (Perizoma) 4...2342. 2.5: 241 blanka. (Ancema)'.20..25)..40 25 139 blomeri. (Discolotia) (222i. 115 boeticus (Lampides) .... 10, 137, 279, 281 bombycina . (Polia) nie ee 87 bowesi..(Leioptilus) 444.25, AGe ees 223 bractea (Autographa) ... 117, 311, 312, 314 bractella (Oecophora) .....0.462.28 13 brassicae (Pieris) . 4, 18, 50, 159, 208... 2335.280, 295) 327 brevilinea (Photedes) ................ 117 brookiana (Trogonoptera) ... 135, 136 brunnearia (Selisodema) ........... 289 brunneata (Semiothisa) ...... 232; 298 bucephala (Phalera) ................ 241 caesiata (Entephria) ............ 71, 308 caja (Aretia)< i Acielsty le a) 219, 314 c-album (Polygonia) .. 35. 50, 88, AMD, 056, 170: 206, 17; 219, 234 californica (Nymphalis) Een ager 295 callidice (Pontiayieien ee 280 camaralzeman (Euploea) .......... 139 eambrica (Venusia), ../inii2.....:-. camilla (Lagoda) ... 50, 88, 110, 142, 172, 206, 207, 216, DAG bs 219, 236, capreolella (Agonopterix) captiuncula (Photedes) capuema) (Ptilodon) ..........0....+. carbonaria (Semiothisa) ............ cardamines (Anthocharis) ... 50, 84, 170, 171, 172, 208, a1 280, 288. 299, cardui (Cynthia) ... 3, 39, 50, 84, ay oh 27 0h.) 1739208. 233, 234.237, 280, 289, 293. 295, 326, 114, carlinella (Mezneria) carmelita (Odontosia) ....... carpinata (Trichopteryx) . *carpinella (Stigmella) cassioides (Erebia) eastanes CXeSila) ioc.0.c0.....: castaneae (Phragmataecia) .. castrensis (Malacosoma) catalaunalis (Antigastra) celeno (Jamides) EGMISPCLABVEHECA) Cosi is. cc ccccsencts. centaureata (Eupithecia) ... centaurus (Arhopala) centrago (Atethmia) ......... cerasivorella (Coleophora) eerisya (Allancasttia) |: .0c00.3..0ese cespitalis (Pyfauista) «2. ... 0.0.0 0c.006 chaerophyllella (Epermenia) ..... characterea CApamea) <.......600000 CHAPONGA CSUSAKIA) cs vencccsc ccs chenopodiata (Scotopteryx) .. 138,232. bos wees s ee esees ee | Li, fee eee ewer wees see eses See eee eee eee ees ee ee eeeee chiron (Marpesia). ....:.../.....0.+-- chloerata (Chloroclystis) ... chlorosata (Petrophora) chrysippus (Danaus) chrysitis (Diachrysia) ......... chrysolepidella (Eriocrana) ......... earyson, (Dyachrisa)! is. 20...)..6205- chrysoprasaria (Hemistola) ......... chrysorrhea (Euproctis) Silialisn((INASGIA) 2) crcia ok. Ad ciliella (Agonopterix) Siiataes( PVGEUS) Jct sek ct aeet cinctaria (Cleora) .. 114, 320, 321, cinerosella (Euzophera) cinxia (Melitaea) eee eee seeee secre eees eeeeresesees citce \CBriniesia) =... 50, 111, 112, circellaris (Agrochola) Ra UE ATH SMESMAGEV EONS) ds oe c2cceencncesec citrago CManthia ee i. clasen: 118, Bettrata: (Chioroclysta) ). ......<:+2¢03- clathrata (Semiothisa) ............... elayaria, (Larentia),, ..3.5<2c.052.02%: clavipalpis (Caradrina) ...... 174, elavis (ASTOtIS)) i ..06cccvezds sc 116, 35505: 114: 171, 280, 299, B97, 332 348 214 268 B22 331 281 216 PAGE cleopatra (Gonepteryx) ... 50, 72, 110, 280, 326 elorana:(Barias) ir. cegaiie ee 79 c-nierum: Cxestia) jy. 23). ie eSin coeruleus (lamides) .......2.....000:. 138 eoenata: Gihera)s eee: weeee 208, 347 comes. CNoctia).:: cate oe See 144 comma (Hesperia) .. 51, 111, 220, 238, 282 comma (Mythimna) .......... 174, 242 comparella (Phyllonorycta) ...... 106 complana (Eilema) .. 37, 87, 144, 219 compta \(Hadena) *: 22 298 confusa, (Hadena) \:13:233 "2. 242, 311 conicolana’) (Cydia), ..22822 2: a 223 conigera (Mythimna) ............... 219 consonaria (Ectropis) ... 114, 115, 116 convolvuli (Agrius) ... 11, 20, 34, 38, 39, 44, 46, 53, 54, 56, 74, 78, 80, 82, 84, 88, 119, $29, 152, 15942335234, 235, coracina: (Psodes) suet ee éordisera, C(Anarta)) 2.3255 ee coracipennella (Coleophora) ...... coridon (Lysandra) ... 44, 53, 74, PHS 220) 232; :2 365 2352358: 281, coryli (Colocasia) ........ 12, 144, COSSUIS 4G OSSIIS)) te re ool costaestrigalis (Schrankia) ... 116, 141, efameta (Acriciae use ee crataegi (Aporia) .. 50, 108, 280, crataesi Cirichiuea)iec ee ees crenata (Apamea) ...... 215.) 216: crepuscularia (Ectropis) ............ cnibraria‘.(Coseinia), . eae a cribrumalis (Macrochilo) ......... crinanensis (Amphipoea) ......... croceus (Colias) 44, 50, 111, 233, 240, 276, 280, etoesella CAdela)y 2/0 ae ee cruda (Orthosia) 103.) 2133 cucullina (Ptilodontella) .. 85, 86, cucullioides (Stictoptera) ............ culiciformis (Thamnosphecia) ... culmella (Chrysoteuchia) ........... cultraria (Drepana) ... 36, 37, 79, 114, 174, cursoria (Euxoa) ... 36, 117, 251; curtula (Clostera) ............... 115, dahl (Diarsia): -Awieee ee a damon (Agriodiaetus) ....... 110, daphne (Brenthis) ............. 1a: daplidice (Pontia) . 279, 280, 300, daraxa;(Emienitis)' 2222 decentella (Etainia) ... 257, 259, decimalis (Tholera) ............ 233, decolorata, (Everes) 46). BES decolorella (Blastobasis) ............ defolaria «(Erannis) 1032. 20...02522222. deione (Mellicta) .. 108, 189, delattini (Hipparchia) ......... 266, delertessii (Graphium) iv PAGE delphis (Polyura) ............... 138, 139 demolens (Papilio) <.. ..//5.22)-34>. 31 demolion; (Papilio): 22. 38623220 2.eee 138 dentaria (Selenia) ....... 113: 219.232 deplana (Eilema) .. 144, ~ 176, 188 depuncta (Eugnorisma) .. 5 2A2 Sit derivata .CAnticlea). \.: 4.055 29:5-6.2% 113 desfontainii (Euphydryas) .......... 300 designata (Xanthorhoe) ...... 115, 160 dia (Boloria) ........ 50) 12! 5280) (299 diamina .(Miellicta) 2.3732 2..08. 05. 280 dicksoni (Poecilmitis) ............... 25 didyma (Melitaea) .. 50, 109, 280, 300 didymata (Perizoma) —..27-2-2.. 222: 71 difinis :.(Cosmaiia), ¢..ehe- 359-0040: 12;)156 diffinis (Teleiopsis) .:..............--- 13 diluta (Cymatophorina) ............ 118 dilutata 32.7....).. see 114 fascelina (Dasychira) .. 115, 218, 241 Fasciaria. (Hylaca) JAn).0. ee 114 fasciuricula(Olieia) 4:25... 22k va! favicolor (Mythimna) ............... 175 feithsameli (Iphiclides) ............. $12 ferrago (Mythimna) ................. 87 ferrugalis (Udea) ... 39, 73, 74, 1532495 festucae (Plusia)’". 2245.22 117, 314 filicovora (Psychoideés)* ..05...2222 73 filigrammaria (Epirrita) ............ 74 filipendulae (Zygaena) .............. 295 flammea (Panolis) ..... 113, 114, 1$7.4 293. 242, 311, B12 flammea (Trigonophora) ... 9, 81, 342 flavicincta (Polymixis) ...... 118, 344 flavicinctata (Enterphria) .......... 240 flavicornis (Achyla) .... 113, 288, 320 flaviventris’ (Coneptia) (ee 334 flavofasiata (Perizoma) ............. 75 fletcherella’ (Seyihiris)’ ieee) eee 222, flexula (Laspeyria) ............ 144, 175 flocciferus (Carcharodus) ... 268, 282 florida’ (Diarsia)’ 22286 -5 216 floslactella (Nepticula) ............. 64 fluctuata (Xanthorhoe) ............. 216 fluctuosa (Tetheella) ................ 114 fluxa | (Photedes)# 2... 1.20343 116 foenella (Epiblema) <.7....£0!20. 329 forficalis (Evergestis) ............... 73 formosana (Enarmonia) ............ 223 foulquieri (Pyreus) .)20 ee 112 francillana (Aethus) ................. 73 fraternella (Caryocolum) .......... 73 fraxinata (Eupithecia) ............... 150 fraxini (Catocala) ... 10, 44, 54, 112, 243 fuciformis (Hemaris) ... 188, 214, 249, 304 fucosa (Amphipaea) .......... 117, 243 fuliginaria (Parascotia) ............. 284 fuliginosa (Phragmatobia) ... 219, 320 fulvata. (Cideria).:...2/227.022).: Fhe 217 fulviguttella (Phaulernis) .......... 70 furcata (Hydriomena) ............... 233 PAGE furcula (Harpyia) . 116, 141, 142, 143, 144. 232.288 furuncula (Mesoligia) ........ 175, 219 PUGVAN( ADAMER) (i.2. 005210 c+ «e's 11, 314 MEIGCAMIIE RAD): fends wen edarciad ante desea sis 73 fuscantaria (Ennomos) ...... 144, 232 galathea (Melanargia) ... 50, 189, 190, 207, 219, 236, 238. 281.295 galiata (Epirrhoe) dace OS écket tates 233 galii (Hyles) .. 10, 39, 46, 54, 79, 283 gamma (Autographa) . 4, 35, 39, 44, 126, 153, 175, 186, 199, PAG 4233) 295 geminipuncta (Archanara) ... 141, 233,294 Palvaco: Cxanthia)) 0.2 ic.cce505h sees 311 eilvatia (Aspitates) ....0..0605.0..6 233 glareosa (Paradiarsia) ............... 174 globulariae (Adscita) ............... 13 Plypatea (Euchdera) ........:..-. 4, 332 PHoapnalii(@ucullia) .2 sss: ds. s0nes 13 gnoma (Pheosia) ........ 114 2152232 (*) gnomana (Paramesia) ......... 274 gonodactyla epi) 29. Ate 70 gothica (Orthosia) ...... 1135320321 eracilis (OTHNOSIA): << 6.0.0.5 0% 114, 214 PRAMAS IGENIGIAD) o.cdcs seeds (Delias)} . 25... 22s... 136 hyperantus (Aphantopus) ... 50, 88, 207, 266, "295, 328 hypermnesta (Ideopsis) bran ame 139 iapis (Buthalia). 2c Hs 136.0159 icarus (Polyommatus) ... 3, 51, 70, 10, A712 At 735 208, 214, 218, 220, 230) 233). 234, 238, 281. 295, 299, B07: 332 ictetata’ (Bupithecia) seen eee 150 icteritia. Cxanthia) \.2geeeeee. ee 175 idas. Giycacides) faseeeees. 67, 281 ilia (Apatura) . 48, 111, 112, 278, 280 ilicifolia (Phyllodesma) metas SENS 13 ilicis (Nordmannia) ............ 50, 281 imbecilla (Eriopygodes) ...... 13, 125 imitaria (Scopula) ............ 144, 174 immundana (Epinotia) ............... 76 imperialella (Aerocercops) ......... 123 impluviata (Hydriomena) ... 115, 240 impura .(Mythimma)) cass. 52: ose9: vil ineerta, (Orthosia)..::..748! x fis. 321 indigata (Eupithecia)) s..7.. 2c. 241 ine FagKAPPIAS) os assests esses oe 138 mes. (Agdpetes) ¢xitesmiaknete oat 300 ino, (Brenthis); 4... .cHasswsseeee.aeee 280 inguilana (Pammene):.).2200.-eeee 76 interjectaria (Cnephasia) ...... 105.13 interrogationis (Syngrapha) .. 117, 186, 187, 218, 243, 311 intricata (Eupithecia) ............... 150 imtimelia (Ectoedemia) nesses 178 inturbata (Eup staiens SsOnot io }(inachis): ....2, Lig dS, 50:69, S650E Ls “113, 170, 208, 232) 253, 235, 237, 280, 291, 348 iolas Colana) ..... 109, 299, 300, 302 iphioides (Coenonympha) .......... 302 ipsilon (Agrotis) ... 39, 126, 153, 175, 186, 199, 204 iris (Apatura) ... 2, 62, 77, 88, 172; 173; 217, 218, 236:,341 irriguata (Eupithecia) ............... 114 irnrorelia (Setina), .o2-a sess 112291 isodactyla (Platyptilia) .............. 70 jacobaeae (Tyria) ......... 15295 jota (Autographa) ............ ZIT 219 jurtina (Maniola) ..... 325070: S55 109) Ni 22058 208, 2: 233, 238. 281, 295, 316 kaplani (Aloeides) Beer ate ak ee, 211 lacertinaria (Drepana) ............. 114 lacteella: (Mompha)¢ 234. 4¢2eeo-. ne: 348 lacunana (Olethreutes) ......... 1022073 lachesis (Melanargia) ............... 110 lafauryana (Choristoneura) ....... 224 l-album (Mythimna) .......... 119, 199 lapponaria (Lycia) ............ 32050321 lariciata (Eupithecia) ......... 241, 288 lathonia (Argynnis) 78, 111, 280, 303 latifasctanay(A cleris): sc:85 geass 73 latistria (Agriphila) ............ 73, 208 vi PAGE lavatherae (Carcharodus) .......... 268 leautieri (Lithophane) ... 13, 16, 93383, a19- 153% 174, 188, 199, 345 lemnata” (Cataclysta)":..<...-s-6<2-7- 73 lemolea (Spalgis)* 122-2... 22.-2222--- 253 leporina (Acronicta) ......... 115,-312 leucapennella (Coleophora) ....... 1 leucostigma (Celaena) ... 74, 142, ‘143, 188, 243 levana (Araschnia) bed em PARC 47 libatrix (Scoliopteryx) .. 112, 115, 243 liberia Galetara)-«:.220- Sie. 22. 139 lichenea (Eumichtis) . 12, 20, 34, 119. 325 ieea(Erebia) (ere nee edataee scree 201 lignata (O. vittata) ligustri Sead tg? Ls otirabe acs PS 115 ligustri (Sphinx) ... 38, 86, 116, 129, 215 limbalis:\(Uresiphita) (.5/...-/..2.002: 40 limosipennella (Coleophora) ...... 22 linearia (Cyclophora) ......... 328 lineata (Hyles) ...... 40, 140, 241, 342 lineola (Thymelicus) ... 77, 268, Peo 295, 298 liturata (Semiothisa) ................- 288 literosa (Mesoligia) ............--.++. 144 litoralis (Mythimna) ......... 242, 286 littoralis, G_obesia) ?}2.%.2.- FONTS 2ST liturella (Agonopterix) ............. 73 livornica (H. lineata) l-nigrum (Arctormis) ................ 224 loewil. (C(Neorina)* 22... et 138 loreyi' (Mythimiia)? 522 02.<.2-.csdee. 40 lota’ (Agrochola).2:. . 25.20.2088 120).176 lotella @Leucoptera).:..1..0.4.4..522.; 347 lubricipeda (Spilosoma) ............ 216 lucens (Amphipoea) ............... 117 lucernea (Standfussiana) 11, 287, 311 lucina (Hamearis) ..... Ben i/o ; 201, 2995332 luctuata (Spargania) .....03.020-<. 36 Tuctuosa:. Gh yta) ees ck dc ob eres ae 109 luedersiana (Pammene) ............ 328 lunaris~(Minucia)i i... ee eee 109 lunosa (Omphaloscelis) . 87, 199, 242 funula*(Calophasia): 26.21.42. 2083 if lunularia (Selenia) 114, 115, 311, 312 lupulinus (Hepalius) ................ 347 luridata (ScotopteryX). ............... 314 lurideola (Eilema) . 87, 219, 241, 287 lutea (Spilosoma) ...... 176, 242, 290 luteago (Hadena) ........ 74, 234, 314 luteela (Stigmella) ............ 123, 124 lutosa (Rhizedra) . 141, 199, 234, 243. / 3 1312 lutulenta (Aporophyla) ...... 175, 188 lycaon (Hyponephele) .............. 281 lychnidis (Agrochola) ............... 199 iyncida:-(Appias) \ 2: .VRe ns ee 138 lythargyria (M. ferrago) machaon (Papilio) . 48, 109, 112, 117280; +3015 327 PAGE macilenta (Agrochola) .............. 176 maera (Lasiommata) .... 50, 110, 281 maestingella (Phyllonorycta) ...... yal malayensis (Chionaema) ............ 136 malvae (Pyrgus) .... 4, 51, 140, 1971, 172) 204) 268, 281, 332 mamurra (Pseudochazara) \ Sa 68 manto>CErebia) ers6 2225.4) 201 margaritata (Campaea) 215, 217, 218 marginaria (Agriopis) ... 30, 113, 212.°213,) 222320321 marginella (Dichomeris) ........... 82 marginepunctata (Scopula) . 233, 314 maritima (Chilodes) ... 11, 116, 117, 141, 142, 143 marioyi .;.: 20228 73 meticulosa (Phlogophora) ......... 344 *metzneriana (Eucosma) ............ 329 mit (Callistecay OR sgh au Fe ee 4.332 miata (Chloroclysta)\ Uo tied. 114 micacea :(hyfaecia) iiss. ee 233 microtheriella (Nepticula) ......... 64 millefoliata (Eupithecia) ............ 151 miniata (Miltochrista) .............. 116 minima, (Photedes): =. flrs c-ssr acta Tt minimus (Cupido) .. 50, 85, 108, 109, 171-172, 236, 240, 281 289, miniosa (Orthosia) iM 2 114, 214, 312 minorata (Perizonia)) 25 eee 241 mnemosyne (Parnassius) ........... 265 monarcha (Lymantria) ............ 232 moneta (Polychrysia) ... 38, 176, 289, 291 monina (Euthalia) ............ 137133 monodactyla (Emmelina) ......... ‘13 monoglypha (Apamea) ... 71, 83, 313 monspessulanella (Etainia) Lote 257 montanana (Dichrorampha) ...... 70 montanata (Xanthorhoe) ... 216, 287 morpheus (Caradrina) ......... 87, 176 morronensis (Aricia) ......... 299, 302 mucronata (Scotopteryx) .......... 115 mucronellus (Donacaula) ... 142, 143 mulciber CEupleea)<¥...2- 2.56... 136 mulleralis (Cirrhichrisa) ............ 157 multistrigaria (Colostygia) ... 175, 320 PAGE mistiGay COrtHOSsia): ....2.0..0c65.08. PMs mundana (Nudaria) .......... 21Ie 328 munitiata CCanthorhoe) ...:..:..:.. 71 murans: (Cryphia)” '....26....25.05. 568 74 muscaeformis (Bembecia) ......... 291 musculosa (Oria) ......... MES Weed ole myopaeformis (Conobia) .......... 75 myrtillata (G. obfuscata) myrrh CAnarta) 2/0652... .60css ese. 79 nana (Hada) .....2.:.... 115,174,216 Hanata CBUpithecia) ....1..2....02.05- DS neupaed (BoOloria) .--.............:.+-- 280 napi (Artogeia) . 4, 50, 70, 159, 208, 211, 215, 216, 220, 280, 284. 295\.' 332 mepuiata (Buchocca) ...:....s22.0.. iS nebulella (Homoeosoma) ......... 315 HeOMOsa (BONA). 5.2c2.-s0eccclaessees 27 nemoralis (Polypogon) ............... 243 MeENpPaLoMm CADISATA) ..0..:....0)sc506 137 Mepis »Chapilio): 0)...214 2.2.82 138 NEEO! CAPPIAS)»30.).0080056ieces. 138," 139 nervosa (Agonopterix) ............. 70 Neumica. (AfFEMANATA)\....06..6.0006: iy neustria (Malacosoma) ...... 219, 314 Mae (UtICHOPIUSIA) esse. Fils... sleds 39 nickerlii (Luperina) .... 183, 184, 185 nigra (Aporophila) . 87, 118, 119, nigricans (Euxoa) ... 37, 87, 144, WUMNIS CMGIAS tes cis fee. ce codecs chwades MOVE A ANEPVEINIS) cialis nitens (P. bombycina) mivea CACeHttA). .2)2025...345... if, noctuella (Nomophila) ... 35, 39, Ws. eG 153. 875, 189, nollothi (Aloeides) nostrodamus (Gegenes) notata (Semiothisa) NOX CAtrOphaneutra) ...:.....<6+ 0 nubilalis (Ostrinia) nubilana (Neosphaloptera) ......... nupta (Catocala) ... 38, 61, 144, nyctelius (Adrusia) nympheata (Nymphula) obductella (Oncocera) Opelsca CEUXOE) — 2 os .cc.ncssces DIS: Obeliscata [GUMETA) 2 ....0260 0.2 accnes obfuscata (Gnophos) ......... 218, oblitella (Heterographis) . 39, 66, , 77, 84, 88, essere ereseseeseese ee ee weeeseeseserseesses eesececsesseseoeses eeeeeeseoses eeeereceseses oblonga (Apamea)) ...........0.0s5-s: Oy, obscurana (Pammene) ............... 76 obsoleta (Mythimna) ... 116, 141, 143, 175, 342 obstipata (Orthonama) ......... 44, 74 occitanica (Melanargia) ............ 50 occulta (Eurios) ..... 17, 54, 84, 188, 242, 283, 289 ocellaris (Xanthia) ............ 80, 113 ocellata (Cosmorhoe) ......... TV32233 MEMPATAN MACE) a. rties oiaeseaoen gee 116 ochrearia (Aspitates) ................ 219 ochrodactyla (Platyptilia) ......... 42 PAGE ochroleuca (Eremobia) .. 80, 87, 188, 219 ocularis :(Tethea tiie. Str ens 311 oditis CLeucochleana) .... 4, 119, 199 Geme-(Erebia) re: ee ee ee 281 oleracea: ((vacanobia) sae 107 oliviella (Esperia)>. 23.5. eee 315 ononaria (Aplasta) ............. Tete ononides ((Parectopay see 176 operculella (Phthorimata) ......... 83 ophiogramma (Apamea) .... 141, 142, 188, 312 opima(Orthosia).. ee Set 75 ORCiGNeRHeA yes ehac hee ae P15 .9232 orion aR rons CRA ihens 302 ornata.(Seopula) oof ea 233 ornitopus (Lithophane) ...... 114, 120 Osiris, (Cupido)ic:s..0 ee 267 osseana» (Bana) 2..k0 eee) eee 70 osseola ((Eiydraccia) v.s....-es eee 118 osteodactylus (Leioptilus) ......... 225 ostrina (Eublemma) ................ 126 oxyacanthae (Allophyes) ... 120, 199 oxyacanthella (Stigmella) ......... 123 pactolana (Cydia) 2). 220% 76 palaemon (Carterocephalus) . 51, 332 palarica: (Erebia) 20a 303 paleacea Enarcia)i ee 56 pales» (Boloria)y ser ss ee 280 pallens (Mythimna) . 86, 87, 141, 144, 174, 176 pallidactyla (Platyptilia) ............ i pallustris.:(Athetis) 40-1 Pee 243 palpina (Pterostoma) ... 141, 215, 219, ane 233 pamphilus (Coenonympha) . 50, AOS 225i 295, 308 327" 332 pam (Poecihnitisjy i os eee 25 Pandocus ACVpthimia): .2..).e2. ee 135 paphia (Argynnis) ... 50, 88, 111, 112, 292, 206.216.2177 219» 220, 236,237, 278.5200 papilionaria (Geometra) ............ 279 paralellaria (Epione) ......... 241, 289 parthenias (Archearis) . 213, 320, a2) parthenoides (Mellicta) ...... 281, 303 patva,-(Eublemma) 7 se ae 126 parvidactylus (Oxyptilus) ......... 240 pascuella (Crambus) ... 142, 143, 239 pastinacella (Depressaria) fetid VE pastinum (Lygephila) ......... 36, 116 paupella (Ptocheuusa) ............... v8: pavonia (Saturnia) . 71, 117, 214, 216 pedaria (A. pilosaria) pedella (Stathniopoda) ............. 342 pellionella (Iimea)-\..23.0052..0 2" 73 peltigera (Heliothis) ............ 40, 126 pennaria (Colotois) ......... 120, 176 pesla,(Cryphia) 3. 3 ee eres 144 perlucidalis (Eurrhypara) ... 264, 338 pernigera (Stictopera) ............... 157 perplexa (Hadena) ...... 79, 314, 328 perseus: (Peecilmitis): ioe ri rays Vili PAGE persicariae (Melanchra) ............ 344 petasites (Hydraecia) ......... 141, 188 phasianipennella (Calybites) ...... 73 phicomone, (Colias), ...ce-c..ess:23-<2 280 phidippus (Amathusia) ............. 139 phlaeas (Lycaena) ... 4, 50, 208, 232, 233; 234, 238, 2812295. phiomides (Spialia) 24.4042. ceee: 268 phoebe (Melitaea) . 50, 108, 280, 300, 3C2 phoeniceata (Eupithecia) .... 150, , 294, 315 phragmitidis (Arenostola) ... 116, dat, 219 piercer. CActhed) ve knee teen 347 pilosaria (Apocheima) ............. 213 pilosellae (Oxyptilus) ............... 224 Pinastri. CHYyIOICUS) & 3. -.2¢.tosetes eee 7 piniaria’ (Bupalus) eiicces..tes co aees 288 pisi (Ceramica) ...2..b:o..4h... 5 PISS Ceo recurvalis \iiymeniay te 199 reducta (Limenitis) 50, 108, 112, : 206, 242, 280, 327 remussa” (Apainea) Vo... 71 repandata (Aicis) . 144, 175, 217, 320 repentiella (Stigmella) . 178, 179, 180 rhamni (Gonepteryx) ... 50, 109, #121135 170) 207, 208e2 193 2202331528032 rhombana (Acleris) .................- 73 rhomboidaria (Peribotodes) . 114, 174, 232 rhomboidea (Xestia) ................ Sit ribeata (Deileptenia) ......... 115, 116 ridens Clty aa 113, 114, 311 ripae (Agrotis) ... 116, 153, 242, 286, 290 ripartii (Agriodiaetus) .............. 267 rivularis (Hadena) .................. 216 roboris (Laeosopis) ........... 111, 281 rosana CATchips) wo3ec22).. eee 70 PAGE PGSITANS, (HY PENA) ; cc.:icaenses. wea deids 156 rotundella (Agonopterix) ......... 73 rubi (Callophrys) ... 4, 50, 171, 256, 2812 326) 332 Rs (Piarsia) * J.....2..'.. om 14) 215 rubi (Macrothylacia) ...... Abe S321 mupidata (Catarhoe), \s..s.i0.0005-00- 77 rubiginata (Plemyria) ........ 219, 240 rubiginea (Conistra) ... 175, 235, 315 tubricollis (Atolmis) ......... «328 rubricosa (Cerastis) .... 113, 214, 321 rufa (Coenobia) ......... £16, 142.219 tag MC HCSIAS) 25.24.0800. 000-0 -2>- £5 tuficapitella (Stigmella) ............ 15 ruficornis (Drymonia) ... 13, 87, 114 rufifasciata (Gymnoscelis) ... 151, 216 BUMICIS ( ACFONICEA): & 5.cc-3. 00506408 215 rumina (Parnalius) ..... 299, 300, 301 fupicapraria (Theria) ............... 222 ruralis (Pleuroptya) .......... 239, 264 FMCiiata, (CASPSIS) | 2.5... .s Acme Bookbinding Co., Inc. | 100 Cambridge St. Charlestown, MA 02129 QV OULU : ‘ : : «