Noctuidae

73.343 Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing Noctua fimbriata (Schreber, 1759)

Common

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

Forewing: 22 to 27mm

Habitats: Deciduous woodland, scrub, parkland, wooded heathland and gardens.

Habits: The moth is attracted to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The polyphagous larva feeds nocturnally on Common Nettle, Broad-leaved Dock, Primrose and other herbaceous plants. Then in the spring it feeds on woody plants such as Bramble, sallows and privets. It hides in loose soil or leaf litter during the day. Pupation takes place in an earthen cocoon under the soil.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on clovers, Wavy Hair-grass and Grape-vine.