Orthosia gracilis (Denis & Schiff., 1775)
Family: Noctuidae
This is a medium-sized, normally creamy coloured, moth which is splashed with many fine black speckles giving it its name. It flies in Spring and is rarely encountered in any numbers although it is fairly widespread. This species has declined by 64% over a 25 year period in the UK but in Northern Ireland there is no evidence of decline.
In brief
Species description
It is a medium-sized, long winged Noctuid moth. The wings are quite pointed, more so than in similar species. The base forewing colour is variable from creamy white through pale grey to brownish but it is consistently sprinkled with black speckles. Other forewing markings are generally obscure apart from a crescent shaped row of faint black dots parallel with the end of the wing.
Life cycle
Single brooded with adults on the wing late March to early May. The caterpillar (May-July) feeds on a variety of plants but especially willows, poplars, blackthorn, bog myrtle and meadowsweet. Early stage caterpillars feed within the spun terminal shoots of the chosen food-plant. It overwinters as a pupa in an underground cocoon.
Similar species
Although there are many superficially similar species none have the combination of relatively long pointed forewings, pale ground colour and black speckling.
How to see this species
The species is commonest in damp habitats such as fens, marshes and wet woodland. Light trapping in such suitable habitat is likely to produce this species
Current status
It is widespread and not uncommon throughout Northern Ireland but with a noticeable lack of records from the north.
Why is this species a priority in Northern Ireland?
Threats/Causes of decline
It is thought to be declining in the UK as a result of many factors, including habitat change, pollution and the use of pesticides.
Conservation of this species
Current action
In Northern Ireland there are no specific actions proposed for this species
Proposed objectives/actions
What you can do
Further information
Links
The Butterflies and Moths of Northern Ireland
The state of Britain's moths - an explanation as to how declines have been calculated
Background information on the Rothamstead Trap Surveys
UK Moths Website with an up-to-date distribution map
Literature
Skinner, B. (2009). 3rd revised and updated edition. The colour identification guide to the moths of the British Isles. Apollo Books.
Thompson, R. & Nelson, B. (2006). The Butterflies and Moths of Northern Ireland NMNI, Belfast.
Waring, P. & Townsend, M. (2009). 2nd edition. Field Guide to the Moths of Great Britain and Ireland. British Wildlife.
Text written by:
Allen & Mellon