Forester Moth
Adscita statices
Overview
The Forester Moth is a day-flying jewel — a small moth with metallic green wings that glint in the sunshine like emerald silk. Green Sefton's John Dempsey specifically names it as a Sefton Coast speciality for moth watchers. It flies only when the weather is warm and sunny, appearing wherever Sorrel and Ragwort grow together on the dune grassland. The metallic green is genuinely stunning at close range. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with forests — it's a grassland moth.
At a Glance
| Order | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Zygaenidae |
| Habitat | Open dune grassland · Calcareous grassland with Sorrel |
| Diet | Adults: Ragwort, thistles. Larvae: Common Sorrel and Sheep's Sorrel. |
| UK population | Declining — amber-listed; restricted to calcareous and dune grassland |
| Sefton Coast | Present in dune grassland at Ainsdale NNR; a notable Sefton Coast speciality for moth recorders |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Dune grassland where Sorrel and Ragwort grow together. Ainsdale NNR. A Sefton Coast speciality.
Identification
Small day-flying moth. Brilliant metallic grass-green wings. Narrow wings held closed over the back at rest. Slow, fluttering flight on warm days. Could be confused with green beetles at a distance.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Walk the open dune grassland at Ainsdale in June where Sorrel grows. Look for slow-flying, metallic green insects on warm, sunny, calm days. They're easy to overlook — most people think they're beetles.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is of moderate conservation concern. Population monitoring and habitat management on the Sefton Coast support its continued recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Forester Moth need both Sorrel and Ragwort?
Adult Forester Moths feed mainly on Ragwort nectar (and other flowers), while the larvae feed specifically on Common Sorrel or Sheep's Sorrel. Both plants need to be present within flying distance for breeding populations to persist. On the dune grassland at Ainsdale, Sorrel and Ragwort grow together — ideal conditions.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.