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Silver y moth

Insect

Illustration of silver y moth
Silver y moth

Autographa gamma

Silver y moths vary in colour from purple-grey to almost black, but they all have the characteristic ‘y’ mark on each forewing. 

This moth, which often flies during the day with a fast, whirring action, migrates from Europe and can be found throughout the UK, sometimes in abundance.

There are generally two waves of migration: spring and late summer. The caterpillars are green and feed on a variety of low-growing plants.

What does it eat?

Adults drink nectar from flowers. Caterpillars eat a variety of plants.

When will I see it?

Usually in spring and summer.

Where will I see it?

On nectar-rich plants. Also in parks, grassland, meadows and scrubby areas.

Vital statistics

Length: About 40 mm across forewings

Calendar

Not seen in JanuaryNot seen in FebruaryNot seen in MarchSeen in AprilSeen in MaySeen in JuneSeen in JulySeen in AugustSeen in SeptemberSeen in OctoberNot seen in NovemberNot seen in December

Key to calendar

Related habitats