Dewick's Plusia
Common NameDewick's Plusia
Scientific NameMacdunnoughia confusa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPlusiinae
Wingspan (mm)34
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, grey, silver
HabitatOpen woodlands, gardens, waste ground, meadows, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeWidespread in the Palearctic region (Europe, North Africa, parts of Asia)
Host PlantsUrtica dioica, Cirsium spp., Carduus spp., Taraxacum officinale, Plantago spp.
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple generations)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are green loopers with pale stripes, feeding on leaves. They pupate in a silken cocoon on the host plant or nearby vegetation.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the bright, metallic silver Y-shaped or comma-shaped mark on the forewing, which stands out against the mottled brown and orange background. The overall shape and resting posture are typical of Plusiinae.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and orange-brown forewings, featuring a prominent, shiny metallic silver mark (often Y-shaped or comma-shaped) in the central area. The hindwings are duller brown.
