Scarce Bordered Straw - Helicoverpa armigera

Wingspan 30-40 mm. A lightly marked reddish-brown species.

Mainly seen on the coast, but occasionally inland

Occurring most often in the autumn months.

An immigrant species to Britain. Found as a larva from time to time on Tomato plants, Geraniums and other plants brought in from the Mediterranean region, where it can be a pest.

Although mainly found around the southern coasts of England it has now been recorded from most of England and along the south coast of Wales. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as a migrant.

Uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = D (rare or rarely recorded)