Noctuidae

73.228 Grey Chi Antitype chi (Linnaeus, 1758)

Common

Similar species: The dark mark in the centre of the wing that looks like the Greek letter chi is diagnotic, but this does vary in shape.

Forewing: 15 to 19mm

Habitats: Calcareous downland, moorland, upland grassland, other grasslands, sand-dunes and gardens.

Habits: The moth is sometimes found on rocks, tree trunks or on walls near street lights. It comes to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds nocturnally on docks, sorrels and Dandelion. In captivity it accepts sallows, Hawthorn, Lilac, Red Currant and many other plants. It pupates in a tough cocoon under the soil.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Mugwort, Meadow Vetchling, Bird's-foot Trefoil, willowherbs, figworts, Columbine, sunflowers, stonecrops, Common Nettle, Lily-of-the-Valley, Honeysuckle, Black Currant, Guelder Rose and willows.