Scotopteryx chenopodiata (Linnaeus, 1758)

Description: Wingspan 34-38mm. Adults are generally ochreous brown with a dark prominent central band, although there is often some variation between individuals. In contrast the hindwings are ochreous white.

Key Identification Features:

• Prominent central band, usually darker
• Small apical streak
• Pale hindwings, faint crosslines

Sets:

Flight Period: Mid-July to early September.

Status: Widespread and commonly encountered throughout all counties including Rathlin Island.

Ecology: A common species found on a wide range of habitats including coastal heaths, and mature gardens. Adults come sparingly to light and are occasionally disturbed during the day from vegetation. It has a particular fondness for the flowers of ragwort and knapweed,which it visits after dusk. The larvae can be found from September to June on clovers and vetches. It overwinters as a larva.

Bradley & Fletcher number: 1732 Agassiz number: 70.045

Additional information:

UK Moths account

Caterpillar: