Noctuidae

73.247 Powdered Quaker Orthosia gracilis ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Common

Similar species: Clouded Drab Orthosia incerta is usually darker with clouded markings and a wavy outer cross-line.

Forewing: 15 to 19mm

Habitats: Marshland, open wetland, bogs, carr, damp woodland and gardens.

Habits: The moth visits sallow and Blackthorn blossom. It is attracted to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The small larva feeds in a spun terminal shoot of sallows, willows, Black Poplar, Bog Myrtle, Blackthorn, Meadowsweet, Common Fleabane, Purple Loosestrife and other plants. The larger larva hides low down on the foodplant. It pupates in a cocoon under the soil, resting inside the pupal case as a fully formed adult until it emerges in the spring.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Aspen, Apple, Bird Cherry, Blackcurrant, Dog-rose, Raspberry, Bramble, Mugwort, Yarrow, dandelion, crane's-bills, Red Clover, medicks and willowherbs.