Noctuidae

73.124 Butterbur Hydraecia petasitis Doubleday, 1847

Local

Similar species: Rosy Rustic Hydraecia micacea is usually smaller (14 to 21mm) with more contrasting warm brown to reddish brown markings, often with a strong pink flush. It has a narrower wing without the "W" in the middle of the outer cross-line.

Forewing: 19 to 21mm

Habitats: Marshes, marshy fields, verges along paths, road verges, river-banks and ditch margins.

Habits: The moth flies over the foodplant just after dark. It will come to light situated adjacent to or amongst the foodplant.

Foodplant: The larva feeds internally, initially in the stems and then in the roots of Butterbur. It pupates amongst the roots of the foodplant or in a bored chamber open to the surrounding soil.