Sheathed Quaker
Common NameSheathed Quaker
Scientific NameOrthosia gothica
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)37
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey-brown, reddish-brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, parks, and other vegetated areas
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe, North Africa, and temperate Asia
Host Plantswillow, birch, oak, cherry, plum, bramble, nettle
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with pale lines, feeding on a wide variety of deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in an underground cocoon, overwintering as pupae, with adults emerging in early spring.
Identification TipsThe most reliable identification feature is the prominent, dark, often blackish, 'gothic' mark on the forewing. Its overall reddish-brown to grey-brown coloration and early spring flight period are also key indicators.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with mottled brown forewings, characterized by a distinctive dark, often blackish, 'gothic' mark between the orbicular and reniform stigmata.
