Intractable Quaker
Common NameIntractable Quaker
Scientific NameOrthosia gothica
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, and temperate Asia
Host Plantsoak, willow, birch, hawthorn, fruit trees, various deciduous shrubs
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with pale lines, feeding on a wide range of deciduous trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs in the soil, with adults emerging in early spring.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the prominent dark, 'gothic arch' or 'g'-shaped mark on the forewing, often outlined in black. Its early spring flight period and overall brown coloration are also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with mottled brown forewings, characterized by a distinctive dark, gothic-arch-shaped mark (stigma) near the leading edge.
