Red Underwing - Catocala nupta

Wingspan 65-75 mm. Unmistakable large moth, but check the colour of the underwing carefully as other, scarcer species such as Light Crimson Underwing and Dark Crimson Underwing can be easily missed.

Adult a photograph showing the colour of the underwing is helpful.

Woodland, scrub, carr, riverbanks and gardens.

It flies in August and September and comes freely to both light and sugar. The adults often rest on walls, fences and tree trunks (especially Poplars and Willows) and the large moths are often disturbed by day.

The larva feeds on Willow and Poplar.

This species is quite common in the southern half of Britain and is gradually increasing its range northwards. 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)