The Spectacle
Common NameThe Spectacle
Scientific NameAbrostola tripartita
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPlusiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host PlantsUrtica dioica (stinging nettle)
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with yellow stripes and feed on nettles. They pupate in a cocoon on the ground or among host plant leaves, overwintering as a pupa.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive raised 'spectacle' mark on the thorax/forewings and its mottled grey-brown cryptic coloration, making it resemble a broken twig or bark.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, featuring prominent raised tufts of scales on the thorax and forewings that resemble a pair of spectacles. Its cryptic coloration allows it to blend seamlessly with bark and twigs.
