In what was otherwise a relatively low catch for this time of year, I had two very good species.
The first was a pale crambid which I did not recognise. After checking the book I believe this is European Corn-borer Ostrinia nubilalis. A new species for me.
[Edit] I was initially stumped by this rather pale and worn noctuid. My first thought was that this is a worn and faded Beautiful Brocade Lacanobia contigua. However, John Thacker and Dave Wilton have suggested this is probably a Large Nutmeg Apamea anceps. I have retained the specimen and will get it checked in due course.
Confirmation or corrections welcome!
Neil Fletcher
Walter's Ash, VC24
Hi Neil, your noctuid is a bit worn and has a slightly unusual diagonal pale 'stripe' centrally, but otherwise looks to me like a Large Nutmeg. The oval mark is rather embedded in pale areas either side - commonly there is a pale patch dorsally but you also have one on the costa, making up the 'stripe' (as you say, rather like the one on Beautiful Brocade).
ReplyDeleteHello Neil,
ReplyDeleteI agree with John about the noctuid, but I presume you've kept it to be sure? The other is indeed Ostrinia nubilalis which seems to have taken up residence in Bucks over the last few years, certainly in the south of the county although eight in my own garden last year (spread between 30 June and 22 Sept) suggests that it is no longer just a migrant here in Aylesbury Vale either.
Many thanks John and Dave,
ReplyDeleteLarge Nutmeg is common here, but I've never seen one like that. I have kept it so it will check it or get checked in due course. We live and learn!