Ashworth's Rustic Xestia ashworthii
Ashworths
Larva • North Wales • © David Green/Butterfly Conservation

73.362 BF2129

Ashworth's Rustic Xestia ashworthii

(Doubleday, 1855)


Wingspan 35-40 mm.

A very localised species, occurring only in the mountainous regions of North Wales, where it inhabits slate and limestone hills.

The single generation flies between June and August, when it comes to light and sugar.

The larvae feed on a variety of low plants including common rock-rose (Helianthemum chamaecistus), heather (Calluna) and foxglove (Digitalis purpurea). On sunny days the larvae can sometimes be found basking on the foodplants or on nearby rocks.
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