Lesser Yellow Underwing

Noctua comes

Common
Lesser Yellow Underwing — photo 1 Lesser Yellow Underwing — photo 2 Lesser Yellow Underwing — photo 3 Lesser Yellow Underwing — photo 4

Description

The Lesser Yellow Underwing caterpillar is greyish-brown to light brown, adorned with several pairs of dark triangular dorsal markings, more pronounced toward the rear of the abdomen. At the tip of the abdomen, four black triangular spots are a reliable identification feature when distinguishing it from similar species such as the Large Yellow Underwing (Noctua pronuba) or the Dotted Rustic (Noctua janthina). It begins its development in autumn, overwinters, then resumes feeding in spring before pupating in May.

Information

FamilyNoctuidae
Size4–5 cm
Hairinessglabre
Observation periodMay to September
DistributionAlmost all of Europe.
ToxicityNC
RarityCommon

Host plants

  • Primrose
  • Clover
  • Hawthorn
  • Honeysuckle
  • Willow
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