Noctuidae

73.337 White-marked Cerastis leucographa ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Local / suspected Immigrant

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

Forewing: 14 to 16mm

Habitats: Open deciduous woodland, scrub and mature hedgerows.

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

Foodplant: The early stages have not been fully recorded in Britain. In captivity it accepts stitchworts, docks, Common Chickweed, Bilberry, sallows and oaks. It overwinters as a pupa under the soil with the fully formed adult within the pupal case.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on sorrels and docks, plantains, Yellow-rattle, bedstraws, Blackthorn, sallows and Bilberry.