Noctuidae

73.301 Shoulder-striped Wainscot Leucania comma (Linnaeus, 1761)

Common

Similar species: The long black basal streak stretching to the centre of the forewing, plus the streaks in the outer area of the wing are enough to identify this species.

Forewing: 16 to 19mm

Habitats: Marshes, fens, other grassy places, damp grassland in woodland rides and clearings and gardens.

Habits: The moth feeds at flowers after dark and is attracted to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The nocturnal larva feeds on Cock's-foot and other grasses. In captivity it accepts Common Sorrel and other docks. The full-fed larva overwinters in a cocoon under the soil where it pupates in the spring.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Wavy Hair-grass and fescues.