Golden Looper Moth
Common NameGolden Looper Moth
Scientific NamePlusia festucae
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPlusiinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsgolden-yellow, reddish-brown, silver
HabitatDamp meadows, fens, marshes, riverbanks, and other wetland areas
Geographic RangePalearctic region, including most of Europe, parts of North Africa, and temperate Asia
Host PlantsCarex spp. (sedges), Juncus spp. (rushes), Iris spp. (irises), Phragmites australis (common reed)
Flight PeriodMay to October (typically two broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are green 'semi-loopers' with pale stripes, feeding on various wetland monocots. They pupate in a silken cocoon, often overwintering as a pupa or larva.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive combination of golden-yellow streaks and two prominent, often conjoined, silvery-white spots on the reddish-brown forewings. The shaggy, raised scales on the thorax are also a good indicator.
Description
A medium-sized moth with rich reddish-brown forewings adorned with striking golden-yellow streaks and two prominent silvery-white spots. Its thorax is shaggy and brown.
