Dotted Clay
Common NameDotted Clay
Scientific NameXestia baja
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, orange-brown, greyish-brown
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, heathland, moorland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsheather, bilberry, dock, willow, birch, various grasses
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUnivoltine, with larvae feeding from autumn to spring and overwintering as larvae. Pupation occurs in the soil, and adults emerge in summer.
Identification TipsKey features include the warm reddish-brown forewings with a distinct blackish kidney mark (reniform stigma) and often a smaller, paler orbicular stigma. The overall mottled appearance is characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with reddish-brown to orange-brown forewings, often mottled, and typically featuring a prominent blackish kidney-shaped stigma and a smaller orbicular stigma. Hindwings are usually plain greyish-brown.
