Noctuidae

73.221 Suspected Parastichtis suspecta (Hübner, [1817])

Local

Similar species: This moth is unlikely to be mistaken for any other British or Irish species.

Forewing: 14 to 16mm

Habitats: Deciduous woodland, scrub, carr, fens, wooded moorland and heathland.

Habits: The moth nectars at Common Ragwort and other flowers, is attracted to sugar and sparingly to light.

Foodplant: The small larva feeds within a spun terminal shoot of birches, Bilberry or possibly sallow. When larger it lives between folded leaves. It pupates in a cocoon in the leaf litter or under the soil.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Alder, willow, Aspen and poplar catkins.