Antler Moth

This distinctive moth is distinguished by its cream, antler-shaped mark which varies in size on the forewing.  Black streaks on the forewing may or may not be present. Males are smaller than females and have feathered antennae.

The adults fly during the day, especially in the north and more frequently in the morning. They can be found feeding at flowers such as thistles and ragworts and can also fly at night. The larvae can be found from March to June, feeding mainly at night, hiding in grasses during the day. They overwinter as eggs.

Size and Family

• Family – Brocades, Quakers and allies (Hadenines)
• Medium Sized 
• Wingspan Range - 24-34mm

Conservation Status

• UK BAP: Not listed
• Common

Particular Caterpillar Food Plants

Grasses such as Sheep’s-fescue (Festuca ovina), Mat-grass (Nardus stricta) and Purple Moor-grass (Molinia caerulea). Has also been found on sedges and rushes.

Habitat

Frequents grassland, favouring acid upland pasture, moorland and downland.

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland
• Common throughout Britain and Ireland reaching as far north as Shetland but much less frequent in the Channel Islands