Obscure Wainscot
Common NameObscure Wainscot
Scientific NameMythimna obsoleta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsstraw-yellow, light-brown, black
HabitatFens, marshes, and other damp, reedy areas
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, and parts of Asia; locally in England and Wales
Host PlantsPhragmites australis (Common Reed)
Flight PeriodJune to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on common reed and overwinter before pupating in the ground. Adults emerge in early summer.
Identification TipsLook for the pale, streaky forewings with clearly defined pale veins and the series of small black dots along the termen. Its preference for reedy, damp habitats is also a strong indicator.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with pale straw-yellow to light brown forewings, characterized by prominent pale veins and a distinctive row of small black dots near the outer margin.
