Variable Yellow Underwing
Common NameVariable Yellow Underwing
Scientific NameAnarta myrtilli
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, yellow, black
HabitatHeathlands, moorlands, open woodlands, bogs
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia (e.g., Siberia, Mongolia)
Host Plantsheather, bell heather, cross-leaved heath, bilberry
Flight PeriodMay to August/September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with white and yellow stripes, feeding on heather and other Ericaceae. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its cryptic grey-brown forewings and the vivid yellow hindwings with a broad black subterminal band, which are visible when the moth is disturbed or in flight.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey-brown forewings and striking yellow hindwings marked with a broad black band.
