A characteristic grassland species.Distinctive, with each forewing having creamy-coloured markings, the outlines of which resemble a witch’s face.
The moth is named after Old Mother Shipton, a 16th century Yorkshire witch.Usually flies for short distances, but is very alert after being disturbed, often alighting on flowers between flights.
Size and Family
- Family – Catocalines
- Medium Sized
- Wingspan Range - 26-32mm
Conservation status
- UK BAP: Not listed
- Common
Caterpillar Food Plants
Clovers (Trifolium sp.), Black Medick (Medicago lupulina), Lucerne (Medicago sativa), Common Bird’s-foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus), as well as Cock’s-foot (Dactylis glomeratus) and other grasses.
Habitat
Found on a range of open, grassy habitats, including downland, heathland, low moorland, flower-rich hay meadows, woodland rides, verges, embankments etc.
Distribution
- Countries – England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland
- Fairly well distributed in England, Wales and Ireland, though more local in Scotland north to Ross-shire. Scarce on the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands.
Mother Shipton - Garry Barlow
Mother Shipton
Garry Barlow
Mother Shipton - Tamás Nestor
Mother Shipton
Tamás Nestor
Mother Shipton - Allan Drewitt
Mother Shipton
Allan Drewitt
Mother Shipton - James O'Neill
Mother Shipton
James O'Neill
Mother Shipton - Garry Barlow
Mother Shipton
Garry Barlow
Mother Shipton - Stuart Read
Mother Shipton
Stuart Read
Mother Shipton - Patrick Clement
Mother Shipton
Patrick Clement
Mother Shipton - Dave Shenton
Mother Shipton
Dave Shenton
Mother Shipton (caterpillar) - Ryszard Szczygieł
Mother Shipton (caterpillar)
Ryszard Szczygieł
Mother Shipton (caterpillar) - Garry Barlow
Mother Shipton (caterpillar)
Garry Barlow