Shark Moth
Common NameShark Moth
Scientific NameCucullia umbratica
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyCuculliinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, whitish
HabitatGardens, hedgerows, woodland edges, open country
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host PlantsSonchus, Lactuca, Taraxacum
Flight PeriodMay to July
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUnivoltine, with larvae feeding on the flowers and seeds of various Asteraceae plants. Pupation occurs underground in a strong cocoon, where it overwinters.
Identification TipsKey features include its slender body, long and narrow streaky grey-brown forewings, and the prominent 'hood' of scales over its head. It often rests with its wings tightly folded, resembling a broken twig.
Description
A medium-sized moth with long, narrow, greyish-brown forewings that display a streaky, bark-like pattern, providing excellent camouflage. It has a distinctive tuft of scales over its head.
