Noctuidae

73.128 Ear Moth Amphipoea oculea (Linnaeus, 1761)

Common

Similar species: All of the other three British ear moths Amphipoea spp. are very similar with an overlapping variation of markings. Check genitalia.

Forewing: 12 to 15mm

Habitats: Unimproved grassland, downland, woodland rides, moorland, marshes and salt-marsh.

Habits: The moth nectars at flowers from dusk and occasionally during the day. It is attracted by sugar and light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds inside the stem and root of Annual Meadow-grass, Tufted Hair-grass and Butterbur. In captivity it will accept the inner stem of Flag Iris. It pupates in an underground chamber.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Cock's-foot and reed grass.