Moth name search:
UKMoths: your guide to the moths of Great Britain and Ireland
Adult
View larger image
Reed Dagger  Simyra albovenosa (Adult)

Wicken Fen, Cambs.

(Photo © )

More images

Adult
Adult
Larva
Show Map

2290 Reed Dagger Simyra albovenosa

(Goeze, 1781)

Wingspan 32-40 mm.

This species more resembles the wainscots (Mythimna spp.) than its closer relations, and because it also has a powdery appearance used to be known as the Powdered Wainscot.

It is confined to parts of East Anglia and the south coast, inhabiting reed beds and fenland.

There are two broods, flying in May, then again during July and August.

The larvae feed on common reed (Phragmites australis) and a number of other plants associated with the habitat.