Noctuidae

73.198 Red-headed Chestnut Conistra erythrocephala ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Immigrant / Transitory Resident

Similar species: The black dots in the kidney mark and the difference in colour between the head and the thorax should be enough to make it unlikely that it will be mistaken for any other British or Irish species. There is a greyer form where the head is greyish rather than red.

Forewing: 16 to 18mm

Habitats: Woodland clearings, scrub and other more open habitats.

Habits: The moth nectars at Ivy blossom and comes to sugar and light.

Foodplant: On the European mainland the larva feeds on the young leaves of oaks, elms, Beech, Hornbeam and gorses. When larger it feeds on bedstraws, Dandelion, Ribwort Plantain, other plantains, wormwoods, violets and other herbaceous plants. In captivity it will accept birches. The full-fed larva spins a cocoon under the soil. It then rests until it pupates about six weeks later.