Noctuidae

73.199 Orange Upperwing Jodia croceago ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Extinct / possible Immigrant?

Similar species: This moth has a distinct combination of dark orange forewing with white dashes along the leading edge, "V" shaped central cross-line, dotted outer cross-line, pointed forewing and white hindwing, making it unlikely to be mistaken for any other British or Irish species.

Forewing: 14 to 17mm

Habitats: Oak woodland, oak coppice and oaks in mature hedgerows.

Habits: The moth visits Ivy blossom and in the spring sallow catkins. It is attracted to light and sugar.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on the young shoots or shoots on coppice of Pedunculate Oak and Sessile Oak growing in warm sheltered sites. It spins a cocoon just under the soil where it rests for several weeks before pupating.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Downy Oak.