Noctuidae

73.108 Guernsey Underwing Polyphaenis sericata (Esper, 1787)

Channel Islands

Similar species: The greenish forewing and yellow-orange hindwing is enough to make this moth distinctive.

Forewing: 17 to 20mm

Habitats: In southern Europe it inhabits open, warm scrub. In the Channel Islands it is found in sheltered coastal valleys.

Habits: The moth was recorded on Guernsey in the 1870s and not refound until 1986. It was first recorded on Jersey in 1989.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Honeysuckle, oaks, Privet and Dogwood. It pupates in a cocoon in loose soil.