Brown Rustic
Common NameBrown Rustic
Scientific NameRusina ferruginea
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, scrubland, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsbramble, honeysuckle, privet, various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed from late summer through autumn, overwintering as a larva. Pupation occurs in the soil in spring, with adults emerging in early summer.
Identification TipsKey features include the overall reddish-brown to dark brown mottled appearance, the distinct reddish reniform stigma, and the somewhat rough texture of the forewings. Hindwings are typically plain greyish-brown.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptic brown and reddish-brown forewings, mottled with darker bands and featuring a prominent reddish reniform stigma. Its coloration provides excellent camouflage against tree bark or dead leaves.
