Taken at Aston, Oxon., on September 28th 2025. (© David Hastings)
(Canon R6+RF100, f/11, 1/200th, ISO5000, 100mm)

Taken at Abingdon, Oxon., on September 19th 2021. (© David Hastings)
(Canon R6+Sigma 180, f/11, 1/400th, ISO1600, 180mm)

Description

Family: Noctuidae (ABH : 73.193)

Wing span: 28 - 34mm

This moth has a rather pointed forewing, but is generally rounded at the very tip. There is an outer row of small black spots. The ground colour ranges from pale brown to blackish. Veins are frequently pale. The 'crescent moon' marking on the pale hindwing is diagnostic.

It is common and widespread in England and Wales. In Scotland it is restricted to coastal and lowland areas, and is mainly coastal in Ireland.

Habitats include damp pasture, parkland, gardens and downland.

There is one generation from late August to mid-October. It over-winters as a small larva.

Larvae feed on grasses, including Annual Meadow-grass and Yorkshire-fog

It comes to light, also to sugar, ivy flowers and blackberries.

Earliest UK sighting: 10th September ; Latest UK sighting: 19th October

Sightings