73.242 BF2188

Clouded Drab Orthosia incerta

(Hufnagel, 1766)

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Wingspan 35-40 mm.

Exceptionally variable throughout its range, this species varies from relatively plain dark forms to well-marked buff and orange individuals. In the darker forms especially, there is usually a distinctive paler fringe to the forewing.

It flies from March to May, and can be found at sallow blossom as well as at light.

Occupying a range of habitats, it is common over most of Britain.

The larvae feed on a number of trees and shrubs, but especially oak (Quercus).