70.047 BF1720

The Gem Nycterosea obstipata

(Fabricius, 1794)

Wingspan 18-21 mm. A continental immigrant from southern Europe, appearing regularly in the British Isles, mainly in the south. In prolific years it will breed, but does not permanently colonise.

The species is sexually dimorphic, the male being light brown with a darker central band, and the female slightly larger and darker, with a white spot on each forewing.

It usually appears in late summer and autumn.

The larvae feed on various low-growing plants.