Species: Lunar Underwing (Omphaloscelis lunosa)
Family: Owlet Moths (NOCTUIDAE)
Category: Butterflies & Moths
Location: Widespread
A. Butterflies & Moths
B. Owlet Moths (NOCTUIDAE)
The Noctuidae - or Owlet Moths - are sometimes considered the largest family of butterflies and moths, with nearly 12,000 different species.
C. Lunar Underwing (Omphaloscelis lunosa)
This species of moth has a variable appearance, their colours ranging from dark brown to an orange-yellow. They have a wingspan of between 31 and 37 millimetres. The pale hindwings of this moth are marked with a darkish moon-like crescent, hence the moth's English name.
The Lunar Underwing prefers parks, gardens and grassland. They are usually found in the southern half of Britain between August and October.
Images
Lunar Underwing
The pale hindwings of the Lunar Underwing are marked with a darkish moon-like crescent, hence the moth's English name. This individual was spotted in late September.
(Photo credit: Sue Standing.)
