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moth Large Yellow Underwing Moths

Identify It >   Moth Section >   Large Yellow Underwing Moths >


Scientific name:  Noctua pronuba

Size:  Wingspan up to 60mm

Distribution:  Commonly found throughout the UK

Months seen:  Between June and October

Habitat:  Woodlands, parks, hedgerows and gardens

Food:  Nectar.  The caterpillars feed on low growing vegetation

Special features:  Large Yellow Underwings are nocturnal moths.  They spend the daytime resting at ground level amongst grass.

When disturbed they flash their bright black and yellow petticoats in an effort to surprise any attacker, such as a bird. This 'disguise and surprise' tactic is also employed by the red underwing moth.

The green caterpillars of Large Yellow Underwing moths are commonly known as 'cutworms'.


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