Svensson's Copper Underwing - Amphipyra berbera

Wingspan 47-56 mm. Only separated as a species from Copper Underwing (A. pyramidea) in the late 1960's, there are a number of subtle characters which can contribute to the identification, but often reference to the genitalia is needed to be sure. The hindwing underside has a different pattern in the two species. Svensson's also has dark palps with pale tips, whereas Copper Underwing's palps are pale throughout, but this character is variable and depends on wear.

Copper Underwing - Amphipyra pyramidea. 

Woodland, scrub, hedgerows, gardens and parks.

It flies from July to September.

The larval foodplants are a range of deciduous trees including Oak.

Widespread throughout much of England, Wales and southern Scotland, It is emerging that in the northern parts of their range, this species is the most frequent of the two forms of Copper Underwing. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

Occasional in Leicestershire and Rutland but lack of records may, in part, be due to misidentification. L&R Moth Group status = C (very scarce resident or rare migrant)