Poplar Grey - Subacronicta megacephala

Wingspan 40-44 mm. One of several powdery-looking greyish moths which can be difficult to identify, this species has however a distinctly round whitish orbicular stigma with a darker centre, and whitish hind wings.

Various

Flies from May to August.

The grey-brown caterpillar feeds on the leaves of Poplar, resting by day in a peculiar question-mark position with the head curled back.

It is most common in the south of England, with the range extending into southern Scotland. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

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