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Orthosia incerta

Clouded drab

Description

Orthosia incerta, commonly known as the clouded drab, is a moth from the family Noctuidae. It is widely distributed across Europe and Asia, inhabiting various environments including meadows, deciduous forests, parks, and gardens. The species is univoltine, with adults emerging from mid-February to the end of May, depending on local climatic conditions. Females lay eggs on host plants, and the larvae feed primarily on oak (Quercus spp.), but also on birch (Betula spp.), clover (Trifolium spp.), and bilberry (Vaccinium spp.). The larvae are active from May to June, consuming leaves of these trees and shrubs.

While feeding, they can cause defoliation, which may lead to a reduction in the overall vitality of the host plants. However, such damage is typically not severe enough to cause significant harm to the trees' health or aesthetic appearance. The species overwinters in the pupal stage within the soil.

Symptom

Infested leaves exhibit signs of feeding, including holes and notches along the edges, resulting from larval consumption. In cases of heavy infestation, partial defoliation may occur.

Tree Species: Elderberry, Elm, Birch, Oak, Hawthorn, Rowan, Whitebeam, Maple, Alder, Lime, Poplar, Willow

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes