Pyrrhia umbra
Umbra Sonneneule ( Pyrrhia umbra )
The Umbra Sonneneule ( Pyrrhia umbra ) or Gold Brown Hauhecheleule is a butterfly (moth ) from the family of cutworms ( Noctuidae ).
Features
The wingspan of the moth is about 27 to 35 millimeters. The ground color of the forewings varies from yellowish to reddish brown. The little protruding stigma are outlined in rust brown. Cross lines and veins stand out somewhat obscured. The Saumfeld often shimmers in purple gray tints. In the yellow-gray hind wings a dark seam band with bright fringes can be seen. Adults caterpillars are highly variable in color, appear in light green -yellow to almost black colorations and show partial longitudinal white stripes.
Distribution and habitat
The Umbra Sonneneule is widespread throughout Europe. To the east, their occurrence ranges through Asia Minor to Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Nepal, as well as throughout Central Asia to Japan. In the mountains it rises up to 1600 meters. The species occurs mainly on warm slopes and embankments and in Ödländereien, semi-arid grassland areas, vineyards and gardens.
Way of life
The moths are crepuscular and nocturnal and visit various flowers such as those of the Yellow Gentian ( Gentiana lutea) or the ordinary snake head ( Echium vulgare). They also appear to artificial light sources and less likely to String baits. The main flight period is from May to August. Occasionally, an incomplete second generation appears in late summer. The caterpillars feed on polyphagous of the leaves, buds, flowers and fruits of various plants. These include Spiny rest-harrow ( Ononis spinosa), Meadow cranesbill (Geranium pratense ) seed sainfoin ( Onobrychis viciifolia ), Large snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus) and many others. The pupa overwinters.
Endangering
The Umbra Sonneneule is widely used in Germany and is classified on the Red List of Threatened Species as not at risk.