Noctuidae

73.186 Beaded Chestnut Agrochola lychnidis ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Common

Similar species: Brown-spot Pinion Agrochola litura has a short black cross-line at the base of the forewing and the marks along the leading edge are black rather than brown. The oval is larger, broader and less elongate and the kidney mark is larger and broader. Lunar Underwing Agrochola lunosa has a more rounded forewing, the outer central cross-line is smooth rather than wavy and the kidney mark is usually broader. The hindwing has blotches along the margin rather than being plain grey. Southern Chestnut Agrochola haematidea is smaller (14 to 15mm) with a very shiny forewing that is darker towards the trailing edge. It has an indistinct oval and kidney mark, both of which are lighter than the background colour of the wing.

Forewing: 15 to 18mm

Habitats: Deciduous woodland, scrub, hedgerows, grassland, heathland, coastal grassland and sand-dunes and gardens.

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

Foodplant: The larva initially feeds on Buttercups, Dandelion, Yarrow, clovers, chickweed, docks and other low growing plants and grasses. When larger it may feed on woody plants such as Blackthorn, Hawthorn and sallows. The full-fed larva spins a cocoon under the soil where it rests before pupating several weeks later.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Wild Cherry.