Least Owlet
Scythris siccella
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Least Owlet faces severe habitat degradation due to intensive agricultural practices and urban development across its limited European range. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the microhabitat conditions required for its host plants and affecting the timing of its brief adult flight period. The species' highly specialized feeding requirements and restricted distribution make it particularly vulnerable to local extinctions from habitat fragmentation.
Habitat
The Least Owlet inhabits dry, calcareous grasslands, chalk downs, and coastal dunes where its larval host plants thrive. Adults are typically found in areas with sparse vegetation and exposed soil, particularly favoring south-facing slopes with good sun exposure.
Other threatened species in Scythrididae
Threatened in Bulgaria
Frequently asked questions
Why is Least Owlet classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Least Owlet live?
What are the main threats to Least Owlet?
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