Noctuidae

73.179 Orange Sallow Tiliacea citrago (Linnaeus, 1758)

Common

Similar species: If care is taken this moth is unlikely to be mistaken for any other British or Irish species.

Forewing: 15 to 17mm

Habitats: Deciduous woodland, parkland, street limes and gardens.

Habits: The moth is attracted to honeydew, flowers and over ripe Blackberries. It comes to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds at night on Small-leaved Lime and other limes. It has also been recorded from Wych Elm. It hides between spun leaves during the day. When it is larger it hides at the base of the tree until dusk. The full-fed larva spins a cocoon under the soil where it rests for about six weeks before pupating.