Status
Morley's Final Catalogue: Certainly local, but probably by no means rare in our broader marshes and Broads. Hemley in 1901 (Wlr); Bosmere in 1900 (G. F. Matthews) and annually at Needham Market about 1904 (L); Southwold in July 1924 (J. C. F. Fryer, Entom. 1926, 61); Lowestoft (Bd) and four in Oulton Broad during August 1904 (Campbell-Taylor); Fritton Lake at light in August 1934 (Mly). Lakenheath (Fenland); Tuddenham in 1904 (Sparke).
Recent Suffolk Status: Very local. Well known in the reedbeds from Thorpeness to Southwold for many years. Targetted survey work by the Suffolk Moth Group and possible population expansion in more recent years has extended the known range along the coast from Bawdsey to Lowestoft and a population has also been found at a single site just over the county border in Norfolk. Populations have also been found slightly inland from the coast. No longer found in the fens on the edge of the Breck.
A new UK BAP priority species.
Life history: Single-brooded. Can emerge in late June in warm years in the county. Adults have been netted at dusk flying along the edge of reed-filled dykes as well as coming to light.
Identification: The similar Brown-veined wainscot has black spots on the underside of the hindwing, is a bulkier moth and lacks the collar of white scales at the top of the thorax (but this feature can wear off quickly).
Habitat: The drier edges of reedbeds and dykes. Dead stems are stated to be an important habitat feature for the moth so regularly cut/burnt sites are unsuitable.  | Retained Specimen / Photograph will be Required. | |
Recorded in 13 (22%) of 58 10k Squares.
First Recorded in 1932.
Last Recorded in 2023. |