Lepidoptera Family Xylinida Moths
The next family-Xylinida-contains twenty British species, several of which are local, but two or three are abundant and widely distributed.
The transverse lines that so often cross the wings of the Noctua are nearly or entirely absent in this family, and longitudinal lines take their place. When the insects are at rest the wings are folded rather closely, the outer pair being arranged like a roof with a very gentle slope. The bodies of the perfect insects are very stout, particularly in the thorax, and thus present a rather powerful appearance.
The larva are smooth, and generally brightly coloured, and feed principally on low plants. The chrysalides are generally inclosed in cocoons on or beneath the ground, and are often provided with spines or bristles on the under side.
We shall select two members of this family.