Neofaculta ericerella?

[PaulHopkins]

I had this Gelechiid in the trap this morning which I couldn’t put a name too. (Forewing length 8mm). I’ve had a suggestion of Neofaculta ericetella on Facebook (Ian Fisher), this looks the part but I’m quite a bit away from heather moorlands (Flintshire is the closest, followed by the East Cheshire hills). I have had wanderers in hot weather before (eg Map-winged Swift).

Is this ID ok for recording, or should I put it down as unknown micro with a note?

Cheers
Paul

[JulianB]

Hi Paul,

A number of these usually turn up in our garden, but only one so far this year. I'd be confident you have the right ID here. Our picture from 17/05/20 attached.

If yours is lost, send it back to the hills!

Cheers, Julian

[PaulHopkins]

Thanks Julian, much appreciated.

Paul

[stevehind]

Any patch of heather will do, even in gardens, as they are not confined to the moors. I would suspect that it is common over your way on the heaths at Heswall and Thurstaston.
Regards
Steve