Family Noctuidae » Subfamily Noctuinae » Axylia putris (Linnaeus, 1761) 73.328 (BF2098)
Forewing length 14-16 mm. An unmistakeble species which has little variation, except some may show a reddish-brown tinge on the forewing. It has excellent camouflage when at rest as it folds its wings close to its body, lays back its antennae, and mimics a broken stem or twig. A dark leading edge and a dark kidney mark on the forewing readily distinguishes this species from others that maybe similar. The larva feeds on Common Nettle, White Dead Nettle, and other low-growing plants. The adult flies June to July, and it is found in various habitats, including woodland margins, farmland, hedgerows and gardens. A common and widespread species except further north where it is more local.
Caught in moth trap, back garden, South Staffordshire. 25th June 2017. Photos © Peter Hillman.
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