72.087 Passenger Copyright Martin Evans
72.087 Passenger larva length 5.5mm Copyright Martin Evans
72.087 Passenger larva length 22mm Copyright Martin Evans
Distribution map Copyright Martin Evans
Life stages table Copyright Martin Evans 72.087 Passenger Copyright Martin Evans

Erebidae

72.087 Passenger Dysgonia algira (Linnaeus, 1767)

Immigrant

Similar species: This moth is unlikely to be mistaken for any resident British or Irish species. There is another species in southern Europe Dysgonia torrida that might occur as an immigrant. It is very similar, with the inner side of the pale band more shallowly and evenly curved and not straight or pointing inward slightly at the leading edge and then curving. If unsure check the genitalia.

Forewing: 17 to 23mm

Habitats: In southern Europe it mainly inhabits deciduous woodland and scrub.

Habits: The moth is occasionally disturbed in the day it comes to light.

Foodplant: The early stages have not been recorded in the wild in Britain. In southern Europe it feeds on Pellitory-of-the-wall, Purple Loosestrife, Castor-oil-plant, Bramble, Pomegranate, Goat Willow and Blackthorn. It pupates between spun leaves.