This medium-sized moth can be confused with the Orange Underwing, but can be distinguished from that species on several characters. It is generally smaller and the forewing is less variegated than that of the Orange Underwing. On the underside of the hindwing the dark outer band is unbroken. Additionally the Orange Underwing usually flies about two weeks earlier than the Light Orange Underwing, the former being associated with birch.
A spring species usually seen flying in sunshine around the tops of Aspen. Less active in the late afternoon. Sometimes found lower down or on the ground visiting puddles.
Flight Season
Starts flying about two weeks later than the Orange Underwing from March to April.
Size and Family
- Family – Orange Underwings (Archiearines)
- Medium Sized
- Wingspan Range - 30-34mm
Conservation status
- UK BAP: Not listed
- Scarce (Nationally Scarce B)
Caterpillar Food Plants
Aspen (Populus tremula)
Habitat
Found in open woodland where mature catkin-bearing Aspen are frequent.
Distribution
- Countries – England
- Found in England south of the Wash and east of the Severn. Formerly reported from the Wye Valley. Restricted in distribution, being confined to areas of suitable habitat.

Light Orange Underwing - Iain Leach
Light Orange Underwing
Iain Leach

Light Orange Underwing (underwing) - Iain Leach
Light Orange Underwing (underwing)
Iain Leach

Light Orange Underwing (male) - Patrick Clement
Light Orange Underwing (male)
Patrick Clement

Light Orange Underwing (male) - Garry Barlow
Light Orange Underwing (male)
Garry Barlow

Light Orange Underwing (female) - Patrick Clement
Light Orange Underwing (female)
Patrick Clement

Light Orange Underwing (male) - Garry Barlow
Light Orange Underwing (male)
Garry Barlow

Light Orange Underwing (male) - Garry Barlow
Light Orange Underwing (male)
Garry Barlow

Light Orange Underwing (caterpillar) - Garry Barlow
Light Orange Underwing (caterpillar)
Garry Barlow