Dingy Shears
Common NameDingy Shears
Scientific NameApamea ypsillon
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, olive
HabitatWetlands, fens, marshes, riverbanks, damp meadows
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia (Palearctic region)
Host PlantsCarex, Juncus, Poaceae
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are subterranean, feeding on the roots and lower stems of wetland plants. They overwinter as larvae before pupating in the spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the characteristic 'ypsillon' (Y-shaped) mark on the forewing, often accompanied by a pale, kidney-shaped reniform stigma, and a generally drab, mottled appearance.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically colored forewings, typically mottled in shades of grey-brown and olive, featuring distinctive dark markings.
