See also Moth of the Week (24/06/2021).

The first record for D&G (and Scotland) was on 30 July 2021 when two were attracted to light at Blackcraig (VC 73). Further records came from the same site in 2022 and 2023 as well as nearby reedbeds on the River Cree.

Recording Method.

Attracted to light, also occasionally comes to sugar.

Identification

The dull or reddish straw coloured forewing is dusted with grey and black and has a thick brown streak emanating centrally from the base. In the female this streak is restricted to the base but in the male it extends to the outer edge, broadening as it does so.

Life cycle

Overwinters as an egg. Larvae present during April to early July, feeding inside stems but changing to new ones as it grows. Pupates a few centimetres from the ground inside the stem of the foodplant.

Larval foodplants

Common Reed.

Habitat

Reedbeds and ditches, but does wander into other habitats including gardens.