August Thorn

I attracted this thorn sp. to the trap on late evening of the 5th July and initially identified it as an August Thorn but I was not sure as have no previous experience of this or the confusion species yet. It is a rare moth now in VC30 and also a little early so provoked some discussion and sharing of images before the ID was confirmed. What I have learnt is that the distinctive features are the wing shape (though that varies between male and female), the kink in the outer cross line at the front of the forewing, the shape of the dark marking on the hindwing, the significant curve in the inner cross-line and the dark colouration at this time of year also helps as apparently the earlier emerging September Thorns are generally pale. Thanks to Andy & Melissa for getting ID confirmed and helping to ensure this superb addition to my garden list !

I hope this selection of images may be helpful...