Noctuidae

73.069 Early Grey Xylocampa areola (Esper, 1789)

Common

Similar species: The double oval mark is distinctive. This moth is unlikely to be mistaken for any other British or Irish species.

Forewing: 15 to 18mm

Habitats: Deciduous woodland, scrub, hedgerows and gardens.

Habits: The moth is sometimes found during the day on fence posts and tree trunks. It feeds at sallow catkins and comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds at night on Honeysuckles including cultivars and rests along a woody stem by day. It pupates in a tough cocoon under the soil.