Family Noctuidae » Subfamily Xyleninae » Omphaloscelis lunosa (Haworth, 1809) 73.193 (BF2270)
Wingspan 32-38 mm. There is a dark ‘crescent moon’ marking on the pale underwing of this moth which gives it its name. The forewing ground colour is quite variable, ranging from yellowish-orange to dark brown. The paler veins give it a somewhat netted look. The larva feeds on grasses. The adult flies in one generation from mid-August to late October. It regularly comes to light, and is found in grassy areas like parks, gardens and downland. A resident species, it is common and widespread in the south, more localised further north.
Attracted to moth trap light, back garden, South Staffordshire. Autumn 2017. Photos © Peter Hillman.
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