Pale Mottled Willow Moth
Common NamePale Mottled Willow Moth
Scientific NameCaradrina clavipalpis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorspale brown, dark brown
HabitatGardens, parks, waste ground, woodlands, fens, coastal areas
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, knotgrass
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on various low-growing plants and overwinter. Pupation occurs in the soil, and the species typically has two generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled pale brown forewings with a series of dark spots and a wavy, darker subterminal line. The moth often rests with its wings folded flat, revealing its characteristic pattern.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with pale brown to greyish-brown forewings, mottled with darker spots and a distinct, wavy darker subterminal band. The hindwings are uniformly paler.
