Noctuidae

73.188 Flounced Chestnut Agrochola helvola (Linnaeus, 1758)

Common

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

Forewing: 16 to 18mm

Habitats: Heathland, Moorland, downland scrub and deciduous woodland.

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

Foodplant: The larva feeds mainly at night on oaks, birches, Hawthorn, elms, Bilberry, Heather, sallows, willows and other deciduous trees and shrubs. The full-fed larva constructs a cocoon under the soil where it rests until it pupates about six weeks later.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Barberry, Hazel, cherry and Aspen.