Plumed Fan-foot Pechipogo plumigeralis

Some references (e.g. Lepiforum) have this as being in the genus Polypogon. First recorded in Norfolk in 2022 but recorded at about 14 locations in 2025 (see Norfolk Moths) so presumably in the process of colonising the county as it has already done in more southerly counties.

My first was in Kent where I think it is already well-established, although this could have been a migrant (occuring with numerous Small Mottled Willows, Diamond-backs and other migrants). As well as the distinctively feathered antennae, the fans on the front legs are remarkable (the feathered antennae and I think also the elaborate leg hair are only present on males).

male Plumed Fan-foot Pechipogo plumigeralis showing foreleg, Cooper Street, near Ash (Kent, UK), 17th July 2026

Females lack the adorned front legs and antennae but the wing pattern is still distinctive enough to enable at least fresh individuals to be identified in the field. After finding the one above in Kent, it was good to catch one in my own garden. Although increasing in Norfolk this seems to be one of the first records from the central part of the county.

female Plumed Fan-foot Pechipogo plumigeralis, North Elmham (Norfolk, UK), 17th July 2026