Straw Underwing - Thalpophila matura

Wingspan 38-46 mm. Pale straw yellow underwing with brown border, together with broad dark forewing, white outer cross line and thickset build are diagnostic.

It frequents open grassland, moors and downs.

The flight period is during July and August and the species comes to both light and sugar.

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

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. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = A (common and resident)