73.27 BF2155

Dot Moth Melanchra persicariae

(Linnaeus, 1761)

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Wingspan 37-40 mm.

Although very common and widespread in England and Wales, this species is almost unknown in Scotland, except the very south, where it occurs scarcely. It is local in Ireland.

Frequenting a range of suburban habitats, including gardens, waste ground and roadside verges, the adults are on the wing in July and August, and frequently visit the garden moth-trap.

The larvae feed on a wide range of garden and wild plants.