Taken at Abingdon, Oxon., on June 17th 2020. (© David Hastings)
(1/250th sec at f7.1)

Description

Family: Noctuidae (ABH : 73.162)

Wing span: 38 - 52mm

The forewing of this species is usually greyish-brown, but can also be pale greyish straw, dark brown or blackish. It has large, conspicuous oval and kidney marks, and a 'W' mark near the outer edge.

It can be found throughout the British Isles.

Ubiquitous. Any grassy place will be utilized.

There is one generation from June to August. There can be a partial second generation in southern England from September to November. It over-winters as a larva.

Larvae feed on grasses, including Cocks-foot and Common Couch.

It comes to light, often in abundance. Also comes to sugar and flowers.

Earliest UK sighting: 9th June ; Latest UK sighting: 17th August

Sightings