Noctuidae

73.018 Gold Spangle Autographa bractea ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Common

Similar species: With its reddish forewing and large kinked triangle marking, this moth is unlikely to be mistaken for any other British or Irish species.

Forewing: 18 to 21mm

Habitats: Moorland, upland pasture, woodland clearings and rides, hedgerows and gardens.

Habits: The moth occasionally flies in sunshine. It flies from dusk when it nectars at flowers and later comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Common Nettle, White Dead-nettle, Ground-ivy, hawkweeds, Honeysuckle, Bilberry and other herbaceous plants. In captivity it will accept Dandelion, docks and plantains. It pupates in a cocoon attached to the underside of a leaf of the foodplant.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Hemp Agrimony, plantains, Dandelion and Colt's-foot.