For Anyone Interested in the Wildlife of the U.K.
Large Yellow Underwing Moths
Identify It > Moth Section > Large Yellow Underwing Moths >
Scientific name: Noctua pronuba
Size: Wingspan up to 60mm
Distribution: Commonly found throughout the UK
Months seen: Between June and October
Habitat: Woodlands, parks, hedgerows and gardens
Food: Nectar. The caterpillars feed on low growing vegetation
Special features: Large Yellow Underwings are nocturnal moths. They spend the daytime resting at ground level amongst grass.
When disturbed they flash their bright black and yellow petticoats in an effort to surprise any attacker, such as a bird. This 'disguise and surprise' tactic is also employed by the red underwing moth.
The green caterpillars of Large Yellow Underwing moths are commonly known as 'cutworms'.
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