Noctuidae

73.356 Heath Rustic Xestia agathina agathina (Duponchel, 1827)

Local

Xestia agathina hebridicola (Staudinger, 1901)

Hebrides

Similar species: White-line Dart Euxoa tritici has a browner less rufous forewing with a slightly larger rounder oval within a brown rather than black wedge. It has a less wavy inner central cross-line.

Forewing: 14 to 16mm

Habitats: Heathland and moorland.

Habits: The moth flies from dusk, nectars at Heather blossom and comes to light.

Foodplant: The nocturnal larva feeds on Heather, preferring areas of taller plants. In captivity it accepts sallow. It hides near the ground during the day. Pupation takes place in the leaf litter or in loose soil.