Noctuidae

73.327 Dark Sword-grass Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel, 1766)

Immigrant

Similar species: Pearly Underwing Peridroma saucia lacks the black streak through the kidney mark and the males do not have feathered antennae.

Forewing: 15 to 25mm

Habitats: Most habitats; woodland, parkland, moorland, heathland, marshes, arable land, coastal downland, sand-dunes and gardens.

Habits: The moth visits flowers and is attracted to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds near the ground on low growing herbaceous plants and crops, such as Curled Dock, Wintercress, Fat-hen, Smooth Meadow-grass. In captivity it will accept Dandelion and plantains.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Hawthorn. The species is considered a serious pest in many countries as it will feed on Cotton, Maize, Tobacco, Potato, Tomato and Sugarbeet.