Noctuidae

73.052 Shark Cucullia umbratica (Linnaeus, 1758)

Common

Similar species: Chamomile Shark Cucullia chamomillae is usually smaller (19 to 23mm) and has the dark veins at the outer margin of the forewing entering the fringe. Marigold Shark Cucullia calendulae has similar outer wing markings to the Chamomile Shark, but has a later flight period which is from October until April. Any Chamomile Sharks found late in the year should be retained to check the genitalia.

Forewing: 22 to 26mm

Habitats: Calcareous grassland, open rough ground, marshes, coastal sand-dunes, vegetated shingle beaches, wasteground and gardens.

Habits: The moth nectars after dark at Red Valerian, Honeysuckle and other flowers. It comes to light.

Foodplant: The nocturnal larva feeds on the flowers and leaves of sow-thistles, wild lettuces, hawk-weeds and hawk's-beards, and hides under the lower leaves during the day. It pupates in a tough soil-covered cocoon under the soil.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Hawkweed Oxtongue, Dandelion and St.John's-worts.