Darker-spotted Straw Moth
Common NameDarker-spotted Straw Moth
Scientific NameTholera cespitis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)38.5
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorslight brown, dark brown, cream, black
HabitatGrasslands, meadows, heaths, open woodlands, often damp areas
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, including most of Britain and Ireland
Host PlantsFestuca, Deschampsia, Poa
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on various grasses and overwinter as eggs. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled straw-colored forewings with scattered darker spots, particularly a cluster in the central area, and a robust, hairy body. The dark central band on the hindwings is also diagnostic, though less visible in a resting dorsal view.
Description
This moth has a robust, furry body and forewings that are mottled light brown, dark brown, and cream, with distinct darker spots and a prominent dark band near the hindwing margin. The hindwings are paler with a dark central band.
