Morley’s Final Catalogue: No more than rather local. Occasionally at Ipswich lights in 1896 (Pyett, Mly); Felixstow in July 1902 (Gibbs); Aldringham, Blythburgh Wood and at Monks Soham light (Mly.), Stowmarket (B); Dunwich (Gd), Beccles (Crf), Barnby Broad in August (Mly). Brandon (Barrett).
Recent Status: Locally distributed across the county.
Life Style: A single brooded species flying during summer peaking during July. The larvae feed on the roots of Helminthotheca hieracioides from a web adjacent to the roots. They hibernate and pupate in a cocoon during spring
Identification: The Scopariinae (Scoparia and Eudonia) can be difficult to identify. Some species are easier than others. Before considering wing markings it is important to note the size, the shape when at rest and the forewing shape. All forewing markings can be important but of particular importance are the white sub-terminal markings, the post median line and the stigmata. They possess orbicular, claviform and reniform stigmata. Worn individuals might not be identified except by genitalia dissection. Scoparia subfusca is a large species with rounded forewings. At rest it lays its wings close together so to appear elongate. The moth has weak markings and is dull grey or brownish grey with no distinct sub-terminal line and with a slightly darker median band.
Recorded in 37 (64%) of 58 10k Squares. First Recorded in 1896. Last Recorded in 2023. Additional Stats