Flame Shoulder Moth
Common NameFlame Shoulder Moth
Scientific NameOchropleura plecta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)31
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, cream, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, heathland, fens, marshes
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, and temperate Asia (Palearctic realm)
Host Plantsdock, dandelion, plantain, knotgrass
Flight PeriodMay to September (two broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous, feeding on various low-growing plants. The species typically overwinters as a larva, pupating in the soil in spring.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinctive pale cream/yellowish stripe along the costa of the forewing, contrasting with the darker reddish-brown ground color, and a dark 'shoulder' patch near the head.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with reddish-brown forewings featuring a prominent pale cream or yellowish stripe along the leading edge (costa) and a dark brown patch near the thorax.
