Taken at Aston, Oxon., on August 29th 2026. (© David Hastings)
(Canon R62+RF100, f/10, 1/200th, ISO 10000, 100mm)

Description

Family: Noctuidae (ABH : 73.295)

Wing span: 24 - 28mm

This moth has a quite pointed and angular fore-wing. The ground colour is pale yellow, orange-brown or orange-red. A dark oval and kidney mark are often visible, and there if often a black dot at the trailing edge of the kidney mark. Three wavy cross-lines are usually visible, and these distinguish this species from the wainscots.

As an immigrant it is mainly found in the south of England, but can penetrate further inland in good years. It is widespread in Europe and North Africa.

Habitats are grassy places.

Immigrants arrive as two or more overlapping generations, peaking from August to October. There may be local breeding in some years, but it is not known to survive the winter in Britain.

Larvae feed on various grasses, including Cock's-foot and Annual Meadow-grass.

It comes to light and sugar, and may be seen visiting Ivy flowers at dusk.

Earliest UK sighting: 29th August

Sightings