Mouse Moth - Amphipyra tragopoginis

Wingspan 33-38 mm. A very plain-looking moth, with three dark dots on the forewing, the ground colour is dark brown with a distinct glossy sheen.

Gardens, woodland, sand-dunes, moorland and fens.

The adults are on the wing from July to September and frequently visit sugar as well as light. If disturbed, they will scuttle away mouse-like rather than take flight.

The caterpillars feed on a variety of herbaceous plants, including the flowers, as well as trees such as Willow.

The species is commonly distributed over most of the British Isles. 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)