Noctuidae

73.055 Star-wort Cucullia asteris ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Notable B

Similar species: If care is taken this moth is unlikely to be mistaken for any other British or Irish species.

Forewing: 19 to 23mm

Habitats: Sea-cliffs, coastal heathland, inner margin of salt-marshes, woodland clearings and rides.

Habits: The moth flies from dusk when it nectars at the flowers of Common Ragwort, Honeysuckle, campions, evening primroses, Tobacco plants and Red Valerian. It later comes sparingly to light and sugar.

Foodplant: The larva feeds diurnally on the flowers of Sea Aster, Goldenrod and sometimes Sea Wormwood, resting openly while basking in the sunshine. It pupates in an earth-covered cocoon in the leaf litter or just under the soil. In gardens it will sometimes feed on Michaelmas Daisy and China Aster.