2163 Broom Moth Melanchra pisi
(Linnaeus, 1758)
Wingspan 32-37 mm.A very variable species, with the ground colour varying between greyish brown to a dark chestnut colour, and the intensity of the markings varying too.
Inhabiting open woodland and heathland, it is quite common in most of Britain.
It flies between May and July, and is attracted to light.
The distinctive brown and yellow striped caterpillar feeds not only on broom (Cytisus scoparius), but also on bracken (Pteridium aquilinum) and other trees and plants.