Noctuidae

73.125 Marsh Mallow Moth Hydraecia osseola hucherardi Mabille, 1907

RDB

Similar species: This moth is unlikely to be mistaken for any other British or Irish species.

Forewing: 17.5 to 21mm. Females larger

Habitats: Brackish river-banks and ditch margins, coastal marshy grassland.

Habits: The moth flies low around the foodplant from just after dusk. Pairs can be found near the ground soon after this. It will come to lights situated adjacent to or amongst the foodplant just after dark.

Foodplant: The larva feeds in the stems and root of Marsh Mallow. It pupates attached to an underground root.