Euthrix potatoria

The scientific name Euthryx potatoria was given to this moth by Carl Linnaeus in 1758. In choosing the name potatoria ‘drinker-like’, he was inspired by the Dutch entomologist Johannes Goedaert, who had called the animal dronckaerdt ‘drunkard’ “because it is very much inclined to drinking”.[3] This remark refers to the moth's habit of repeatedly plunging its head into the water.[4] The English name drinker (moth) also refers to Goedaert's analogy.

Subspecies include:[1]

• Euthrix potatoria mikado Bryk
• Euthrix potatoria potatoria (Linnaeus, 1758)

This species can be found in Europe.[5] The species is fairly common in the southern half of Britain. In Scotland, it is common in the west but not in the east of the country. It is most frequently found in marshy places, fens and riversides but may also be seen in drier, grassy terrain.[6][7]

In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

This nocturnal moth flies from June to August depending on the location. Males especially are attracted to light.[6][7] The females lay their eggs in small clusters, mainly on the stem of grasses or reeds.[8] The larvae feed on various grasses and reeds (Alopecurus, Deschampsia, Dactylis, Elytrigia, Carex, Luzula and other Gramineae).[9]

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  Drinker moth caterpillar eating grass.
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  Caterpillar
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  Caterpillar (ventral)
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  Mounted specimen. Male
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  Female

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Euthrix potatoria.

• Lepiforum.de
• Schmetterling-raupe.de