Common Rustic agg. - Mesapamea secalis agg.

Formerly a single species, this has now been split into a complex of three, giving Lesser Common Rustic and Remm's Rustic specific status. Generally very variable, the three cannot be reliably separated without reference to their genitalia, but the very dark forms with almost white stigmata tend to be mostly Lesser Common Rustic.

Various habitats especially grassy areas.

July and August. Regularly come to light.

The larvae feed inside the stems of various grasses, including Cock's-foot and Tall Fescue.

The species is very common throughout Britain and regularly comes to light.

As an aggregate group these Rustics are common in our area but there are few confirmed records for individual species. L&R Moth Group status = C (very scarce resident or rare migrant, but genitalia examination needed for secure identification)