Taken at Aston, Oxon., on July 28th 2022. (© David Hastings)
(1/800th sec at f11)

Description

Family: Noctuidae (ABH : 73.348)

Wing span: 32 - 40mm

The distinguishing feature of this species is the delicate light green marking on the head, front half of the collar and the underside of the thorax when the moth is freshly emerged. This fades to brown. The forewing is deep purplish brown. The oval and kidney marks are partially outlined in white.

It can be found throughout the British Isles.

It occupies most habitats, including moorland to medium altitude.

There is one generation, from July to early September. The larva is the over-wintering stage.

Larvae feed on a wide range of herbaceous plants, including White Dead-nettle, Broad-leaved Dock and Scentless Mayweed. In spring they climb into bushes like Blackthorn and hawthorns to feed there.

It comes to light, and feeds at sugar and flowers.

Earliest UK sighting: 8th July ; Latest UK sighting: 28th September

Sightings