Orange Underwing

The Orange Underwing flies around the leafless canopy of mature birch trees on sunny, still days in early spring. The moths rarely descend low enough for close inspection and are best observed through binoculars. They appear orange in flight, although as the name suggests this colour is largely restricted to the hindwings. The forewings are blackish-brown with white markings.

Can be confused with the very similar Light Orange Underwing (Archiearis notha), which is found mainly in south-east England and is generally associated with Aspen rather than Birch.

Flight Season

Flies during the day in the early part of the year between March and April, preferring to fly in sunshine.

Size and Family

• Family – Orange Underwings (Archiearines)
• Medium Sized 

Conservation status

• UK BAP:  not listed

Particular Caterpillar Food Plants

Downy Birch and Silver Birch

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales, Scotland.
• Widespread and locally common across much of England, Wales and mainland Scotland. Not recorded from Ireland.

Habitat

Woodland, heathland and any other habitats with mature birch trees.

Can be confused with the Light Orange Underwing.