Noctuidae

73.212 Double Kidney Ipimorpha retusa (Linnaeus, 1761)

Local

Similar species: Olive Ipimorpha subtusa has a paler forewing with only a slightly hooked outer edge. The inner cross-line leads outward towards the trailing edge while slightly converging towards the outer line.

Forewing: 13 to 15mm

Habitats: Damp deciduous woodland, marshes and river-banks.

Habits: The moth nectars at flowers and comes to honeydew and sugar. It also comes sparingly to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds in a shelter of spun leaves on sallow, willow or Black Poplar. It pupates in a cocoon under the soil.

On the European mainland it has been recorded feeding on Goat Willow, Grey Willow, Osier, Purple Willow and White Willow.