Large Yellow Underwing Moth

Large Yellow Underwing Moth ~ Noctua pronuba

This moth was found by chance amongst the lavender plants on Newington Green, where it had been roosting during the daytime. It then flew over onto the decking and this photo shows how well camouflaged it is against the wood. It also has bright yellow hindwings, unable to be seen in this photo, which it displays when it is disturbed, in order to frighten predators.

The Yellow Underwing is very common in England and Europe and sometimes it migrates in large numbers. As yet, no moth surveys have been done on Newington Green, so we do not know how often this or other moths may be found there. 

The smooth brown or green larva, or caterpillar,  feeds on grasses, herbs and other low-growing vegetation. They go underground during winter and can eat the roots of plants, before pupating in late spring. The moth is usually seen flying between June and October.

Thanks to Richard Meyers for identifying this moth.

July 2011