Identification

Similar to Rosy Rustic but normally substantially larger. Forewing is brown and lacks any pink tinge.

Recording Method.

Possibly under-recorded in the region. Attracted to light but traps need to be placed very close to, or in the middle of, stands of Butterbur. Can also be netted at dusk over Butterbur.

Life cycle

One generation. Overwinters as an egg on the remains of the foodplant. Larvae are present during April to mid-July, mining the stem and then the roots of the foodplant. Pupation takes place underground among the roots.

Larval foodplants

Butterbur.

Habitat

Mostly riverbanks, but also other places where Butterbur is found.

History

Lennon (1863) had stated that it was not common, but that it had occurred near Glen Mills (VC73). Additional to MOGBI.

A few were attracted to MV at Abbey Burn Foot (VC73) in mid-August 1998. Lastly, one was trapped at Sorbie (VC74) on 18th August 2009.