Noctuidae

73.181 Pink-barred Sallow Xanthia togata (Esper, 1788)

Common

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

Forewing: 13 to 16mm

Habitats: Deciduous woodland, scrub, poplar plantations, carr, marshes, fens, moorland, heathland and gardens.

Habits: The moth is attracted to Ivy blossom and other flowers and over-ripe blackberries. It comes to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The young larva feeds inside a catkin of Grey Willow, other sallows or poplar until it falls. It then feeds on fallen catkins or herbaceous plants such as docks. The full-fed larva spins a cocoon under the soil where it rests for six weeks or more before pupating.

On the European mainland it has been recorded feeding on Goat Willow.