Middle-barred Minor
Common NameMiddle-barred Minor
Scientific NameOligia fasciuncula
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)21
Primary Colorsyellowish-brown, brown
HabitatDamp grasslands, fens, marshes, open woodlands
Geographic RangeEurope, including British Isles, parts of Asia
Host PlantsDeschampsia cespitosa, various coarse grasses
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are subterranean, feeding on the roots and lower stems of grasses. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the soil during spring.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, stout body, and the distinctive pale central cross-band on the forewings, which stands out against the darker mottled brown markings. The hairy, yellowish head and thorax are also characteristic.
Description
A small, stout-bodied moth with a hairy, yellowish-brown thorax. Its forewings are typically yellowish-brown to reddish-brown, featuring a prominent pale, often whitish or yellowish, central cross-band.
