This Mother of Pearl Moth (Pleuroptya ruralis) is rather old and faded with many of the scales missing from the wings, but nonetheless it counts as one of the 38 species of butterflies and moths that have been recorded in the Charlton Down Nature Area. The caterpillar feeds on Common Nettle.
Useful Books and Links
https://butterfly-conservation.org/moths/mother-of-pearl
https://www.ukmoths.org.uk/species/pleuroptya-ruralis/
Collins Complete Guide to Butterflies and Moths – a photographic guide to every common species, Paul Sterry, Andrew Cleave, and Rob Read, William Collins, 2016, ISBN 978-0-00-810611-9
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Charlton Down Nature Area 
Even if she is old and faded she is so beautiful!
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Thanks, Amanda. It is amazing that it was still able to fly in that fragile state. Apparently, when in perfect condition, the wings are gently iridescent with a rainbow of colours in the right light.
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