Varied Coronet
Common NameVaried Coronet
Scientific NameHadena compta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, white, cream
HabitatGardens, waste ground, coastal areas, open grassy habitats
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia; introduced to North America
Host PlantsDianthus species, Silene species
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the flowers and developing seeds of various Dianthus and Silene species, then pupate in the soil over winter.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled dark and light forewing pattern, a prominent white reniform stigma, and a dark basal streak on the forewing.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with highly variegated forewings, displaying a complex pattern of dark brown, black, and white/cream patches, providing excellent camouflage.
