Hebrew Character Moth

This common moth was in the polytunnel yesterday, probably newly emerged from its Winter spent in the ground in a cocoon. It was having a nap, as they’re night-fliers, but it got quite lively after a few minutes.

Usually emerging in March to lay eggs, the first caterpillars will arrive later in March where they generally feed on sallow (pussy willow) or other Spring budding trees but also dandelions and clovers.

I don’t recall seeing the green caterpillar but they’re more likely to be on the blackthorn in the hedge than on our plots, that’s where Jamie moved it to. It’s welcome to over-Winter with us!

There are some similar looking moths but the marking doesn’t have the clear ‘nun’  נ shape and they fly later in the year.