Description: Wingspan 25-28mm. Adults (which are often variable in colour) are mainly pale grey with a distinctive reddish brown central band, which is normally darker towards the basal area. The beginning of April to the end of September.

Irish Distribution: Common and widespread throughout southern counties becoming scarcer north of Lough Neagh. Recorded from Rathlin Island, Antrim.

Ecology: A common species associated with a variety of habitats notably damp woodland, meadows, hedgerows and suburban gardens. Adults come frequently to light in moderate numbers. The larvae can be found from July to September on various species of crucifer. It overwinters as a pupa.

Key Identification Features:

• Reddish brown central band narrower towards the centre
• Small darkish patches near apex of forewings

Distribution Map from NBN: Xanthorhoe designata at National Biodiversity Network mapping facility, data for UK.

iNaturalist: Xanthorhoe designata at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.