Taken at Aston, Oxon., on July 22nd 2025. (© David Hastings)
(1/250th sec at f/11)

Description

Family: Erebidae (ABH : 72.002)

Wing span: 26 - 30mm

The fore-wing is straw yellow, fading to pale straw when worn, with brown outer edge and fringe. The kidney mark is dark brown.

It can be found throughout the British Isles.

Typical habitat is tall, usually damp grassland, including woodland rides.

There are two generations as far north as Yorkshire, in June-July and August-October. Mainly one generation further north, June-August. The larva is the over-wintering stage.

Larvae feed on grasses, including False Brome, Tor-grass and Purple Moor-grass.

It is easily disturbed during the day. It flies from dusk, and comes to light.

Earliest UK sighting: 27th May ; Latest UK sighting: 7th September

Sightings