Common Rustic Mesapamea secalis

Wingspan 27-30 mm.

Formerly a single species, this has now been split into two, giving Lesser Common Rustic (M. didyma) specific status.

Generally very variable, the two cannot be reliably separated without reference to their genitalia, but the very dark forms with almost white stigmata tend to be mostly didyma.

Flying in July and August, the species is very common throughout Britain and regularly comes to light.

The larvae feed inside the stems of various grasses, including cock's-foot (Dactylis glomerata) and tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea).