Orthosia praeses
Common NameOrthosia praeses
Scientific NameOrthosia praeses
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)38
Primary Colorsdark brown, reddish-brown, black, cream
HabitatWoodlands, forests, gardens, hedgerows
Geographic RangeWestern and Central Europe
Host Plantsoak, willow, birch, hawthorn, fruit trees
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThis species is univoltine, producing one generation per year. Larvae feed during late spring and early summer, pupating in the soil where they overwinter, with adults emerging the following spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinct pale reniform and orbicular spots on the forewings, the overall mottled dark brown and reddish-brown coloration, and its early spring flight period. It can be distinguished from similar *Orthosia* species by the specific shape and outlining of these spots.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled dark brown and reddish-brown forewings, featuring prominent pale, often kidney-shaped (reniform) and circular (orbicular) spots. The hindwings are a plainer greyish-brown.
