Antler Moth
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| Cerapteryx graminis Linnaeus, 1758 |
The Antler Moth (Cerapteryx graminis) is a moth of the family Noctuidae. It is a common species throughout most of Europe.
This species is unusual for a noctuid in that there is marked sexual dimorphism. The male has a wingspan of 27-32 mm but the female is much larger with a wingspan of 35-39 mm. The forewings are brown, speckled with black and marked with a bold white branched basal streak which gives the species its common name. The hindwings are dark brown with a white fringe. This moth often flies during the day, especially in warm weather, and is attracted to a range of flowers. It also flies at night and is attracted to light. The adults are on the wing from July to September.[1]
The grey larva feeds on various grasses including Deschampsia, Festuca and Nardus. It is sometimes so common that it damages pastures. The species overwinters as an egg.
[edit] Notes
- ^ The flight season refers to the British Isles. This may vary in other parts of the range.
[edit] References
- Chinery, Michael (1986, reprinted 1991). Collins Guide to the Insects of Britain and Western Europe.
- Skinner, Bernard (1984). Colour Identification Guide to Moths of the British Isles.
