Lythria purpuraria (Purple-barred Yellow)
On 26 August 2026, after reviewing weather charts which showed the wind crossing the Island from Europe, conditions appeared ideal for moth trapping. Evening temperatures remained above 18°C, with overnight rainfall and high humidity.
The following morning, 27 August 2026, inspection of a Skinner trap at 6.30am revealed a bright yellow-orange moth fluttering against the Perspex. The specimen was successfully potted, together with a second individual discovered at the bottom of the trap.
The ObsIdentify app provided an identification of Lythria purpuraria (Purple-barred Yellow). Both specimens were photographed for verification, safely released, and formally logged with the Jersey Biodiversity Centre.
A search of historical records found no previous records of Lythria purpuraria in Alderney, Guernsey, or Jersey, making this a potential first record for the Channel Islands.
Photographs and record submitted for verification.
Author: Kim Koester, Entomology Section Member
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