Moth i.d. needed (Sussex)

[Words]

I saw these two moths in the garden tonight. Would appreciate help with identification. The second one is 'licking' a slug (which was eating an apple)! Thanks.

[GuyF]

The first is one of the 2 Copper Underwing species (either Svensson's Copper Underwing or Copper Underwing) to get a definite id you need to look at the underside of the hindwing.
The second is a Pale Mottled Willow.
Both are nice shots,
Guy

[Words]

Thanks Guy. That's great I didn't get a clear shot of the underwing so I can't go any further on the the copper underwing but I got some nice detail shots which I'll put in the main Gallery if I get past the i.d.

[naturegirl]

Dash! You beat me to it Guy, well done!

Naturegirl

[Words]

It's the thought that counts So thanks!

[GuyF]

Just spotted this shot you've put in the Gallery:


This could sort of change things because this shot shows the palps of the moth. There's been some debate recently about whether the palps are reliable enough to separate the 2 Copper Underwing species and it's always best to have a look at the hindwing, but looking at this moth it looks more like a Svensson's Copper Underwing (the palps only have pale tips whereas on Copper underwings they're completely bare).
Guy

[Words]

Guy, you've lost me a bit there but if a crop would help let me know. Meanwhile I've had another look at what I got last night and this shot shows some of the underside.

[GuyF]

Sorry, that was a bit confusing, here's a thread that John put up last year which will hopefully explain things a bit better:
http://www.wildaboutbritain.co.uk/fo...underwing.html

Of the 2 species though, I now think yours is more likely to be a Svensson's Copper Underwing.
Guy

[Words]

I thibk I see what you mean! Thanks

[naturegirl]

According to a recent post by ? Dan/Jason/Venger? the colour of the palps does not indicate a Svenssons.

You can only tell them apart by the underside of the hindwing which is why I use cotton bud pots!!!

Naturegirl