Common Swift Moth

Background

As the name suggests the Common Swift Moth is the most common species of the Swift Moths, with a great abundance throughout Europe. The Common Swift Moth shares very similar biology and life history as the Ghost Moth.

Habitat

Distributed throughout Britain these moths are found within wooded and open wildlife areas such as gardens, parks and grasslands.

Diet

Much like Ghost Moths, the larvae live underground and feed on plant matter such as roots and stems. They also have no functioning mouth parts as an adult and therefore do not feed.

Predators & Threats

Predators primarily include bats, birds and other nocturnal insectivores.

Facts

• The Ghost Moth and Common Swift Moth are some of the most damaging moth species to gardens.
• Larvae of this species take 1 - 2 years to fully develop.

Best Time to Look

May-July