Taken at Aston, Oxon., on July 1st 2025. (© David Hastings)
(1/200th sec at f/10)

Description

Family: Noctuidae (ABH : 73.097)

Wing span: 26 - 32mm

This species is very similar to the Uncertain. The Rustic is more variable in colour, and is often greyer. The forewing can be almost blackish. The fine cross-lines and and central band are usually faint.

It is widely distributed in the British Isles, except for NW Scotland.

It occupies most lowland habitats, including urban areas.

There is usually one generation from late June to mid-August (this is 2 weeks later than the Uncertain). There can be a small second generation in October in southern England. It over-winters as a larva.

Larvae feed on a range of herbaceous plants, including chickweeds, docks and plantains.

It comes to light, sugar and flowers.

Earliest UK sighting: 19th June ; Latest UK sighting: 30th August

Sightings