Noctuidae

73.044 Sweet Gale Moth Acronicta cinerea ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Notable A

Similar species: This moth has similarities with dark forms of several species, but they are all larger; Sycamore Acronicta aceris (18 to 22mm), Light Knotgrass Acronicta menyanthidis (16 to 20mm), and Knot Grass Subacronicta megacephala (16 to 20mm) which also has a prominent white mark two-thirds along the trailing edge.

Forewing: 14 to 16mm

Habitats: Moorland, in east Scotland coastal arable land and road verges.

Habits: The moth can be found resting on fence posts and rocks during the day. It flies from dusk when it visits flowers and comes to sugar. It later comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Bog Myrtle, Heather, birches, Eared Willow, Creeping Willow and sallows. Away from moorland it has been recorded on Ribwort Plantain, Sea Plantain, Yarrow, docks, Common Sorrel, Meadowsweet, Common Ragwort, Sea Campion and other plants. It pupates in crevices in rocks or stone walls or in the leaf litter.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on medicks, dandelion, Cypress Spurge and thyme.