Noctuidae

73.050 Wormwood Cucullia absinthii (Linnaeus, 1761)

Notable B

Similar species: Neither Scarce Wormwood Cucullia artemisiae or Cudweed Cucullia gnaphalii have the prominent black markings on the forewing.

Forewing: 16 to 19mm

Habitats: Dry sunny slopes and embankments, fallow fields, open wasteground and other derelict places where the foodplants grow.

Habits: The moth is occasionally found on fences during the day. It flies from dusk when it visits flowers such as Red Valerian. It occasionally comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on the flowers and seed-heads of Wormwood and occasionally Mugwort. It pupates in a cocoon of silk and earth in the leaf litter or under the soil.