Hedge Rustic
Common NameHedge Rustic
Scientific NameTholera cespitis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)38.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsdark brown, grey, ochre, white
HabitatGrasslands, heaths, open woodlands, gardens, grassy areas
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host PlantsFestuca, Deschampsia, Poa, Dactylis
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are subterranean, feeding on the roots of various grasses. They pupate in an earthen cocoon underground, with adults emerging in late summer.
Identification TipsKey features include the dark, cryptic forewing pattern with a prominent white kidney-shaped (reniform) stigma, and its flight period in late summer to early autumn.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with dark, mottled forewings featuring complex patterns of dark brown, grey, and ochre, and a distinctive white reniform stigma.
