Dewick's Plusia

A migrant to the UK, it has been recorded less than four hundred times, most often at light from coastal counties of England but numbers are increasing, possibly supported by transitory breeding. Easily recognised by large metallic silver 'dog-leg' mark in the centre of a pinkish-brown bar on the forewing.

In mainland Europe, it is widely distributed and expanding its range westwards since the end of the 19th Century. Can be found on the continent from spring to late autumn in two broods, sometimes seen flying by day. Spends the winter as a young caterpillar.

Flight Season

Flies from May to October but most commonly seen in the UK from late August to October.

Size and Family

• Family: Silver and Gold Ys, and Brasses (Plusiines)
• Medium Sized
• Wingspan Range - 32-38mm

Conservation Status

• UK BAP: Not listed 
• Immigrant

Caterpillar Food Plants

As a migrant, it cannot overwinter in the UK, but when larvae are seen, it is usually on Common Nettle, Yarrow, Chamomile, wormwoods and other herbaceous plants.

Habitat

Can be found anywhere along the south coast, often in gardens.

Distribution

• Countries: England and Scotland
• Localities: Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire, Surrey, Sussex, Essex, Cumbria, Orkney, Shetland and the Channel Islands.
• Mostly coastal areas in the south and east of England, although has been seen as far north as the Shetland Islands.