Identification

A sexually dimorphic species, females are larger and have a more pointed forewing than males. Both sexes have a prominent pale costal stripe that extends to the wing apex.

Recording method

Attracted to light.

Flight period

June-August.

Larval foodplants

Reeds and sedges, most commonly Common Reed (Phragmites australis) and Greater Pond-sedge (Carex riparia).

Habitat

Reedbeds and marshes.

History

The first for Dumfries & Galloway was found in Colvend parish, Kirkcudbrightshire, during July 1871 by Francis Buchanan White, while the first for Wigtownshire was found at Torrs Warren on 17th June 1984 by Sir Arthur Duncan, specimen at National Museums Scotland, with the Dumfriesshire first being found at Kirkton on 24th June 1996.