General comments: Widespread and usually numerous, though with some years of scarcity. Our earliest record is from the Sandridge area (Griffith, 1890). The distinctive larval cases are usually frequent low down on the trunks of trees of a great many species, on fence posts, grave stones, walls and various plants in the south of the county and the insect is likely to be pretty much everywhere here. Males are occasionally caught in light traps, but almost all reports are of cases - which if occupied will contain either a larva or a wingless adult female. When naming Psyche casta from cases, be sure to critically rule out Psyche crassiorella. Recorded in 32 (78%) of 41 10k Squares. First Recorded in 1890. Last Recorded in 2023. |