Setaceous Hebrew Character - Xestia c-nigrum

Wingspan 35-42 mm. A distinctive species which should not be difficult to identify.

Gardens, woodland, heathland and marshes.

In the southern half of its range, there are two broods, flying in small numbers in May and June, but far more commonly in August and September. In the north there is just one generation, flying in July and August. The population is sometimes reinforced by immigration in the autumn.

The larvae feed on a variety of herbaceous plants, but especially Nettle.

Widely distributed throughout Britain, sometimes commonly. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

Very common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = A (common and resident)