Svensson's Copper Underwing
Common NameSvensson's Copper Underwing
Scientific NamePhlogophora meticulosa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, parks, open country
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia; migrant to Iceland and Madeira
Host Plantsdock, nettle, bramble, willow, birch, oak, various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMay to October (often bivoltine)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are polyphagous, feeding on a wide variety of plants. They typically overwinter as larvae, pupating in the soil in spring.
Identification TipsKey features for identification are the unique 'crinkled' appearance of the forewings, the intricate mottled brown and grey patterns, and the bright coppery-orange hindwings which are revealed in flight or at rest when disturbed.
Description
A medium-sized moth with distinctively crinkled or folded-looking forewings, displaying a mottled pattern of browns, greys, and blacks, often with a prominent pale reniform stigma. The hindwings, though not visible in this image, are a striking coppery-orange.
