Noctuidae

73.364 Rosy Marsh Moth Coenophila subrosea (Stephens, 1829)

RDB

Similar species: If care is taken this moth is unlikely to be mistaken for any other British or Irish species.

Forewing: 17 to 22mm

Habitats: The less flooded parts of acid bogs where the foodplant grows.

Habits: The moth sometimes nectars at Heather and Soft-rush just after dark, but more usually it can be found feeding from about 11.30pm, when it also comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva at first feeds on the catkins and buds and then the leaves of Bog Myrtle. Also Bilberry, Bog Rosemary and Crowberry. In captivity it will accept Crack Willow and other willows.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Bog Bilberry, Heather, Marsh Labrador Tea, Dwarf Birch and sallows.