Noctuidae

73.265 Beautiful Brocade Lacanobia contigua ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Local

Similar species: The pale area to the outer trailing side of the oval (often with two points) that leads toward the trailing corner of the wing forms a large pale "V" across the forewings and should distinguish this moth from similar sized resident species.

Forewing: 16 to 19mm

Habitats: Heathland, moorland and acid to neutral open woodland.

Habits: The moth is attracted to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds through the night and day on oaks, Silver Birch, Downy Birch, Bog Myrtle, Heather, Broom, Dyer's Greenweed, sallows, docks, Bracken and other deciduous trees and plants. It pupates in a cocoon under the soil.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Bilberry, Bramble and Hemp Agrimony.