73.109 BF2303

Straw Underwing Thalpophila matura

(Hufnagel, 1766)

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Wingspan 38-46 mm.

A relatively widespread and locally common species in England and Wales, though scarce in the south-west. As its range extends northwards it becomes more coastal into Scotland.

The flight period is during July and August, and the species comes to both light and sugar. It frequents open grassland, moors and downs.

The nocturnal larvae feed on various grasses, and hide during the day.