Noctuidae

73.254 Antler Moth Cerapteryx graminis (Linnaeus, 1758)

Common

Similar species: The cream-white antler marking in the forewing makes this moth unmistakeable.

Forewing: 12 to 17mm

Habitats: Open acid grassland, upland moorland, heathland and downland.

Habits: In northern Britain and sometimes further south, the moth flies during the day feeding at ragworts, thistles and other flowers. After dark it comes to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds nocturnally, frequently on the stem base of Mat-grass, Sheep's-fescue, Purple Moor-grass and other hard bladed grasses, sedges and rushes. It hides in the grass during the day. The larva pupates in an earthen cell under the soil.