Large Yellow Underwing
Common NameLarge Yellow Underwing
Scientific NameNoctua pronuba
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorsbrown, yellow, black
HabitatGardens, woodlands, grasslands, agricultural areas, urban areas
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia, introduced to North America
Host Plantsdandelion, dock, plantain, various grasses
Flight PeriodJune to November
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as cutworms, feed on a wide variety of plants at night and hide in the soil during the day. Pupation occurs underground.
Identification TipsThe dull brown forewings provide camouflage when at rest, but the bright yellow hindwings with a black band are distinctive when the moth is in flight or disturbed.
Description
A robust moth characterized by its dull, mottled brown forewings and vibrant yellow hindwings, each marked with a prominent black subterminal band.
