Noctuidae

73.303 Devonshire Wainscot Leucania putrescens (Hübner, [1824])

Notable A

Similar species: Although the broad dark markings are variable in their intensity they are enough to separate this moth from similar species.

Forewing: 14 to 17mm

Habitats: Grassy coastal sites and sea cliffs.

Habits: The moth visits the flowers of Red Valerian, Wood Sage and grasses after dark. It is attracted to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The nocturnal larva feeds on grasses until early February when it is full-fed and forms a cocoon under the soil, where it passes the spring until it pupates in May. In captivity it accepts Cock's-foot and Annual Meadow-grass.