Description: Wingspan 30-40 mm. There is some degree of individual colour variation. Forewing colour ranges from purplish brown through to greyish brown. The subterminal, antemedian and postmedian lines are usually grey in colour. There is a distinctive dark gothic-shaped mark in the medial area of the forewing from which it takes its name. Hind wings light fuscous with a pale coloured fringe. Early March to late May.

World Distribution: Throughout western Europe north to the Arctic.

Irish Distribution: Common and widespread throughout all counties including Rathlin Island.

Ecology: A spring species found in a wide variety of habitats including suburban gardens. Adults come frequently to light in moderate numbers and are one of the most frequently encountered species in garden traps in early spring. The larvae which are polyphagous develop through May and June. It overwinters as a pupa.

Key Identification Features:

• Distinctive gothic-shaped mark on forewing
• Small discal spot and pale fringe on hindwings

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

iNaturalist: Orthosia gothica at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.