Red Chestnut
Common NameRed Chestnut
Scientific NameCerastis rubricosa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)36
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, brown, grey
HabitatWoodlands, heathland, gardens, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, North America
Host Plantsdock, dandelion, plantain, primrose, willow, birch
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various low-growing herbaceous plants and pupate in the soil. The species typically overwinters as a pupa, with adults emerging in early spring.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its distinctive reddish-brown ground color, the mottled and somewhat streaky pattern on the forewings, and its early spring flight period. The antennae are simple in females and slightly ciliate in males.
Description
A medium-sized moth with reddish-brown forewings mottled with darker brown and greyish scales, often featuring indistinct kidney and orbicular marks. Its cryptic coloration helps it blend with tree bark or dead leaves.
