Status
Morley's Final Catalogue: 'Somewhat scarce, but widely distributed' in 1890, when it was thought too general to merit localising. Later records are merely from Copdock (Hkg); and Ipswich (Pyett), where Baylis took it on 27 July 1895 at electric light, then a novelty which attracted many outlying moths. Several at Hemley in 1903 et. seqq. (Wlr); one at sugar in Gorleston during July 1935 (Mr).
Recent Suffolk Status: Common and widespread.
Life history: Single-brooded. The highly distinctive and colourful larvae are found regularly in the county in late summer, quite often crawling over the ground looking for a pupation site after leaving the host tree.
Identification: Poplar grey is smaller and has a pale area around the large spot on the forewing.
Habitat: Woodland, scrub, gardens, hedgerows.Recorded in 53 (91%) of 58 10k Squares.
First Recorded in 1895.
Last Recorded in 2023. |