Noctuidae

73.355 Neglected Rustic Xestia castanea (Esper, 1798)

Local

Similar species: Square-spot Rustic Xestia xanthographa usually has a much paler more contrasting kidney mark than Neglected Rustic, with a larger grey not black mark within it.

Forewing: 16 to 18mm

Habitats: Heathland, moorland, raised bogs and scrubby or sparsely wooded heathland.

Habits: The moth nectars at the flowers of Heather from dusk. It is attracted to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The nocturnal larva feeds on Heather, Bell Heather and Cross-leaved Heath. It hides near the ground during the day. The full-fed larva forms a cocoon under the soil, but does not pupate until several weeks later.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Bilberry, Broom and meadow-grasses.