Noctuidae

73.348 Lesser Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing Noctua janthe (Borkhausen, 1792)

Common

Similar species: Both Langmaid's Yellow Underwing Noctua janthina and Wilson's Yellow Underwing Noctua tertia have a broader dark border on the hindwing that follows along the leading edge enclosing the yellow central area. Wilson's Yellow Underwing also has a lighter, warmer coloured forewing.

Forewing: 16 to 20mm

Habitats: Most habitats except very high altitude sites. Woodlands, grasslands, moorland, heathland, marshland, coastal grassland, sand dunes and gardens.

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

Foodplant: The nocturnal larva feeds on Broad-leaved Dock, Scentless Mayweed, White Dead-nettle, Cuckoopint, sallows, Bramble, birches, Blackthorn, Hawthorn and other herbaceous plants and shrubs. It hides in loose soil or leaf litter during the day. Pupation takes place under the soil.