Noctuidae

73.285 Grey Hadena caesia mananii (Gregson, 1866)

RDB (Protected on Isle of Man)

Similar species: The moth in the picture is a well marked specimen. They are usually much more uniform and indistinctly marked. Its size, habitat and indistinct markings should identify this species.

Forewing: 15 to 17mm

Habitats: Coastal shingle and rocky sites close to the sea shore.

Habits: The moth flies from dusk and comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on the seed pods and then the leaves of Sea Campion, choosing the more isolated plants under which it hides when it is not feeding. It pupates in a cocoon amongst the rocks.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Nottingham Catchfly, Bladder Campion, Rock Campion, Alpine Catchfly, Saxifrage Catchfly, Silene ciliata, Silene multicaulis, Alpine Soapwort, Alpine Gypsophila (or Creeping Baby's Breath) and possibly Primrose and Wild Strawberry.