| ADULT |
Wingspan 35-40mm. A common immigrant that can, in some years, turn up in big numbers and is easily recognisable by the vaguely marked brownish-grey forewings that each have a centrally positioned prominent silvery white Y shape. The forewings can be variable in ground colour though with purplish hues common. Occasionally the Y mark can be broken. |
| CHRYSALIS |
Pupates in a loose cocoon amongst leaves. |
| LARVA |
Feeds on a variety of plants both wild and cultivated with Bedstraws and Clovers particularly favoured. |
| BEHAVIOUR |
Attracted to light and visits flowers at dusk. Seen throughout the day when disturbed from grass. |
| HABITAT |
Can turn up anywhere. Very common in some years around the coast and inland especially gardens with plenty of flowers. |
| FLIGHT PERIOD |
May to October but can be recorded throughout the year. |
| STATUS |
Immigrant that breeds annually. |
