A small reddish-brown moth, with fine black and white markings. Forewing colour varies from pinkish brown and purplish brown to greyish brown or blackish-grey. Similar to the Heath Rustic, but that species has a pale streak along the leading edge of the forewing along with a small, pale oval mark within a black wedge. May sometimes be confused with Beautiful Yellow Underwing. The moth is often seen visiting flowers in bright sunshine.

Size and Family

  • Family – Darts, Yellow Underwings and Clays (Noctuines)
  • Medium Sized 

Conservation status

  • UK BAP: Not listed
  • Common

Particular Caterpillar Food Plants

Heather and Bell Heather, possibly also Cross-leaved Heather.

Habitat

Associated with heathland, high moorland and possibly gardens, but occasionally found away from breeding sites.

Distribution

  • Countries – England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland
  • The moth has been recorded throughout Britain, as far north as Shetland, and also on Man, Ireland and the Channel Islands.
 
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