Noctuidae

73.336 Red Chestnut Cerastis rubricosa ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Common

Similar species: This moth is unlikely to be mistaken for any other British or Irish species.

Forewing: 14 to 17mm

Habitats: Mainly deciduous woodland and scrub, but also gardens, downland and other open habitats, including moorland in the north.

Habits: The moth visits sallow blossom after dark and is attracted to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The polyphagous larva feeds nocturnally on docks, bedstraws, Common Chickweed, Groundsel and other herbaceous plants, as well as woody species such as Bilberry and sallows. It stays on the foodplant during the day. It pupates in a tough cocoon under the soil.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Dandelion, ragworts, Bird's-foot Trefoil, Germander Speedwell, plantains, sorrels, Yellow-rattle, Cypress Spurge, Lesser Butterfly Orchid, Fragrant Orchid, grasses and Grey Alder.