Status Local distribution. Damp open broadleaved woodland, carr woodland and bushy fens. (also parks and gardens)
Very similar to Double Square-spot, determination can be made by resting position, forewing colouration and hindwing colouration.
i. Triple-spotted Clay tends to rest with wings wrapped more tightly together, giving the moth a more slender appearance. ii. Triple-spotted Clay is a darker moth, usually a purplish-brown colour. iii. Triple-spotted Clay typically has pale grey or light cream contrasting hindwings, iv. If uncertain will require gen. det. to confirm.
Hindwing Comparison
| [L] Triple-spotted Clay light cream/grey [R]Double Square-spot dark brown/grey |
Recorded in 61 (82%) of 74 10k Squares. First Recorded in 1873. Last Recorded in 2023. |