Airy Apamea Moth
Common NameAiry Apamea Moth
Scientific NameApamea anceps
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorstan, brown, black
HabitatGrasslands, meadows, heaths, open woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host PlantsPoa, Festuca, Dactylis, various grasses
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are subterranean, feeding on the roots and lower stems of various grasses. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the soil in spring.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled brown forewings with distinct, often pale-ringed reniform and orbicular stigmata. The overall pattern provides excellent camouflage against bark or soil.
Description
A medium-sized moth with forewings mottled in shades of light brown, tan, and dark brown, featuring prominent kidney-shaped and circular stigmata often outlined in a lighter color.
