Amblyptilia acanthadactyla
Not all Plume moths are white. Amblyptilia acanthadactyla is a brownish species to be found all over Britain and Ireland, but never encountered in great numbers. It is on the wing in February and March, when adults that have been overwintering deposit their eggs. Then there is a second generation in July and August, which doesn't overwinter. The third generation appears from september onwards and does overwinter, thus becoming next years first generation. The larvae live on various plants including heather species. Reaching a wingspan of no more than 20 mm Amblyptilia acanthadactyla is a small species indeed!
