CABBAGE MOTH

ADULT: Wingspan 34 to 50mm.  This common and variable moth has forewings of grey, black, green or brown marked with many paler patterns and darker touches.  More often than not a kidney-shaped spot enclosed within a white border is found on the forewings, as well as a thin white line that travels around the edge of the forewing. On the tibia of the forelegs are found curved dorsal spurs.  LARVA: From pale greens to browns and even dark greys with various black lines and markings the caterpillars come in a range of colours with a range of patterns. These munchers are voracious feeders on members of the Brassica family and can be a serious pest. BEHAVIOUR: Adults are attracted to light. Adult moths emerge from the pupae in soil during the months of May and June. Females initiate copulation by putting their antennae in a forward position and quickly flapping the raised wings. HABITAT:  Parks, gardens, farmland, urban areas, wasteland and hedgerows. FLIGHT PERIOD: Up to three generations per year from May to September. STATUS: A  common species throughout most of Britain, becoming less so further north.