Taken at Aston, Oxon., on May 20th 2022. (© David Hastings)
(1/160th sec at f11)

Description

Family: Noctuidae (ABH : 73.359)

Wing span: 34 - 38mm

The roughly triangular, bright straw-coloured central blotch extending diffusely to the leading edge is diagnostic. It contrasts sharply against the saddle-shaped black mark adjoining it. This supposedly resembled a letter in the Hebrew alphabet.

It is common in most of the British Isles, except for western Scotland and western Ireland.

It is typically a lowland species, occuring in woodlands, cultivated areas and gardens.

There are two generations in southern Britain, a small one in May/June and a much larger one in August/October. In Scotland there are also two generations, June/July and a smaller one August/October. The larva is the over-wintering stage.

The larvae feed on a wide range of herbaceous plants, including Common Nettle, White Dead-nettle, willowherbs and burdocks.

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

Earliest UK sighting: 19th May ; Latest UK sighting: 31st October

Sightings