The Sprawler - Asteroscopus sphinx

Wingspan 39 to 49 mm.This moth has a very furry thorax, and its broad pale wings are streaked with darker colours.

A woodland species.

It is a late flying species, being on the wing from  October to December.

The English name 'Sprawler' comes from the larva's habit of throwing back its head in defensive attitude. They feed on the foliage of a range of deciduous trees.

Distributed widely throughout much of England and Wales, commoner in the south. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

Fairly frequent but not common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = B (scarce resident or restricted distribution or regular migrant).