17
I found a caterpillar on the dry fungus which was growing
on birch near Thorndon Country Park (TQ 616913). The
larva was obviously feeding on the fungus as its droppings
were black. After a few days in captivity it pupated in
a white cocoon and later emerged as a rather drab, brown
micro, on the 5th November 1979. This moth was kindly
identified by Col. A.M. Emmet.
I would be interested to hear if anyone comes across this
moth in other parts of Essex.
Ian M Clenaghan
References;
1. G. Kibby, "Mushrooms and Toadstools." Oxford University
Press, p 250. 251.
,2. F.H. Brightman and B.E. Nicholson "The Oxford Book of
Flowerless Plants." Oxford University Press p. 146, 147.
3. J.F. Sourouille French Patent 2437-836 (1978)
4. I. M Clenaghan Proc Brit. Ent. Nat Hist, Soc.
Exhibits Oct 1981.
5. A.M. Emmet "The Smaller Moths of Essex" Essex Field
Club p151.