Black Spot Moth
Common NameBlack Spot Moth
Scientific NameApamea crenata
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorswhite, dark brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, grasslands, gardens, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia, North America (introduced)
Host Plantsvarious grasses, Plantago, Taraxacum
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous, feeding on various grasses and herbaceous plants. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive white subterminal band and the prominent black reniform stigma on the forewings. The very hairy head and thorax are also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by its dark brown and white forewings, featuring a prominent black spot (reniform stigma) and a distinct white subterminal band. The head and thorax are notably hairy.
