Noctuidae: Amphipyrinae

2297 (ABH73.062) Copper Underwing Amphipyra pyramidea, (Linnaeus, 1758)

KR09307

 Photo © Barry Dickerson
Copper Underwing
 Photo © Barry Dickerson
 pre-2000
 2000-2009
 2010-2019
 2020-onwards
Earith
Earith
 Photo © David Griffiths
Seghill, Northumberland. Gen. det. KWR 03-09-15
Seghill, Northumberland. Gen. det. KWR 03-09-15
 Photo © Ian Fisher
Monks Wood
Monks Wood
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Monks Wood
Monks Wood
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Monks Wood (Ovington plot),6th Aug. 2007.
Monks Wood (Ovington plot),6th Aug. 2007.
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Monks Wood
Monks Wood
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Brampton Wood
Brampton Wood
 Photo © Peter Bissell


General Information

The adults of this species are very similar to Svensson's Copper Underwing. It is possible to distinguish the two species with reference to the underside of the hindwing.

 

Pupates in loose soil.

Overwinters as Overwinters as an egg.
Both sexes come to light.
Often found at rest during day

Forewing length: 21-26mm.
Foodplant(s): hawthorns (Crataegus spp.), Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), Crab Apple (Malus sylvestris), Hazel (Corylus avellana), honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.), birches (Betula spp.), broadleaved trees, broadleaved shrubs
Flying: One generation, late July-early October
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Common

Habitat

Woodland, scrub, hedgerows, fens, heathland, gardens and parks.

Regional Information

Recorded in 126 (46.7%) of the 270 2km squares of Huntingdonshire.

Last recorded in September 2022

Recorded date range (Adult): 14 June to 18 October

Recorded date range (Larva/Leafmine): 11 May to 22 November

Similar Species
Earith
Earith
 Photo © David Griffiths
Svensson's Copper Underwing Amphipyra berbera


Larva/Leafmine:
Larva Type:
Smooth
Colours:
Green, white, yellow
No. of Proleg Pairs:
5