Taken at Alvescot, Oxon., on August 23rd 2026. (© David Hastings)
(Canon R6+RF100, f/10, 1/250th, ISO 8000, 100mm)

Description

Family: Noctuidae (ABH : 73.252)

Wing span: 30 - 38mm

This moth has a broad blackish-brown fore-wing, with a straight leading edge. The only conspicuous markings are the oval and kidney marks outlined in golden yellow, and pale cross-lines. The male has slightly feathered antennae.

Although it is found in most of the British Isles, it has suffered a large decline in abundance in recent years.

Habitats are a range open grassland and rough grassy places, including gardens.

There is one generation per year in August and September. The egg is the over-wintering stage.

Larvae feed on hard-bladed grasses such as Mat-grass and Wavy Hair-grass.

It comes to light and feeds at sugar.

Earliest UK sighting: 23rd August

Sightings