Clouded Drab
Common NameClouded Drab
Scientific NameOrthosia incerta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, reddish-brown, cream
HabitatWoodlands, parks, gardens, hedgerows, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host Plantsoak, willow, birch, hawthorn, blackthorn, elm, honeysuckle
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in spring. Larvae feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs during late spring and early summer, then pupate in an underground cocoon, overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsLook for the variable but often mottled forewing pattern, typically with a distinct dark reniform stigma and a jagged, pale subterminal line. The ground colour can range from pale grey to dark reddish-brown.
Description
A medium-sized moth with highly variable forewing coloration, typically mottled brown, grey, or reddish-brown, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark or dead leaves.
