73.339 BF2105

Dotted Rustic Rhyacia simulans

(Hufnagel, 1766)

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Wingspan 45-60 mm.

A species with a rather fluctuating and discontinuous distribution in England, which is also complicated by possible immigration in the south. It also occurs sporadically in Wales, Scotland and Ireland.

The moths fly in June and July, then aestivate in cool places such as tunnels and outbuildings, reappearing in the autumn. The populations seem to vary widely from year to year.

Details of the larval foodplant in the wild are yet to be discovered, but in captivity the caterpillars will accept a range of grasses and other plants. However, they are reputed to be difficult to rear successfully.