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Acleris rufana (Adult)

Loch Staing, West Sutherland ex. larva on Myrica gale

(Photo © Duncan Williams)

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f. apiciana
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1057 Acleris rufana

([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Wingspan c. 19 mm.

A rather variable species, typically having almost unicolorous buff-coloured forewings, others with grey or purplish ground colour, and some, like the form apiciana illustrated, with well-defined markings.

The species inhabits moors and damp woods, and is distributed locally but widely across the British Isles in these habitats.

Flying from August to October, the adult moths hibernate over winter and can reappear in the spring.

The main foodplant is bog-myrtle (Myrica gale), but sometimes sallow (Salix) is used.