Noctuidae

73.088 Dark Mottled Willow Spodoptera cilium Guenée, 1852

Immigrant

Similar species: The darker form of Small Mottled Willow Spodoptera exigua is similiar but with a narrower forewing, orange oval and kidney mark and the males have slightly shorter projections on the antennae.

Forewing: 12 to 14mm

Habitats: In Africa it inhabits short-turfed grassland including lawns and golf courses.

Habits: The moth comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on grasses including Maize and Rice for which it is considered a pest. It pupates in the soil.