Dingy Footman - Eilema griseola

Wingspan 32-40 mm. Several of the Eilema species can be difficult to tell apart, but this moth has broader, more rounded forewings than many of the others. It can be quite greyish, but a yellowish form, straminola, does occur in places.

Common Footman, Dingy Footman, Scarce Footman and Buff Footman are all similar but can be distinguished by shape and colour - see Identification Aids below.

Found around damp woodland, fens and sea-cliffs

It flies in July and August

Feeds on various lichens.

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

Occasional in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = C (very scarce resident or rare migrant)