Common Rustic

An extremely variable moth from yellowish brown to greyish or reddish-brown, blackish-brown or black. A kidney mark on the forewing is always visible and at least partly outlined in white. This species is impossible to distinguish from the Lesser Common Rustic and Remm’s Rustic without referring to the genitalia.

The larvae can be found from September to the following May feeding inside plant stems, moving to new ones as they grow and then pupates underground.

Size and Family

• Family – Arches, brindles, minors, rustics and allies (Noctuidae)
• Small-sized
• Wingspan Range – 24-32mm

Conservation Status

• UK BAP: Not listed
• Common

Caterpillar Food Plants

A range of grasses including Cock’s-foot (Dactylis glomeratus), Tall Fescue (Festuca arundinacea), Tufted Hair-grass (Deschampsia cespitosa) and cereal crops. 

Habitat

Found in a wide range of grassy places including gardens, farmland, heathland, calcareous grassland and woodland.

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland
• Common and well distributed throughout the British Isles.