Transverse moth
Common NameTransverse moth
Scientific NameErastria trabealis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyEustrotiinae
Wingspan (mm)21
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsyellow, orange, brown
HabitatDamp grasslands, fens, marshes, open woodlands, heathland edges
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia to Japan
Host PlantsCalamagrostis, various grasses and sedges
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various grasses and sedges, pupating in a cocoon near the ground. The species typically overwinters as a pupa.
Identification TipsKey features include the pale yellow to orange-brown forewings with distinct, wavy dark brown transverse lines and a noticeable darker brown band along the outer margin.
Description
A small moth with pale yellow to orange-brown forewings marked with prominent dark brown transverse lines and a darker brown terminal band. The hindwings are paler.
