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Square-spot Rustic
Xestia xanthographa ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)
Noctuidae: Noctuinae
2134 / 73.357
Photo © Ben Sale,  Stevenage, Hertfordshire (01/08/21)

Similar Herts & Middlesex Species
Garden Dart
Euxoa nigricans
Small Square-spot
Diarsia rubi
Forewing: 14-17mm.
Flight: One generation July-Oct.
Foodplant:   Grasses and small herbaceous plants.
Red List: Least Concern (LC)
GB Status: Common
Verification Grade:  Adult: 1

General comments:
Ubiquitous.

The Square-spot Rustic was reported as 'Common in all districts' by Foster (1937) and the same situation applies today. Caterpillars can be collected easily by sweep-netting the tops of grasses about two or three hours after darkness on dry nights in March

Recorded in 38 (93%) of 41 10k Squares.
First Recorded in 1887.
Last Recorded in 2023.

Latest Records
Date#VC10k - General Area
11/10/2023320TL31 - Hertford
10/10/2023120SP90 - Berkhamsted
10/10/2023320TL11 - Harpenden / Wheathampstead
10/10/2023120TL23 - Letchworth / Baldock
10/10/2023320TL31 - Hertford
10/10/2023321TQ17 - Brentford / Hounslow / Richmond
09/10/2023120TL10 - St Albans
09/10/2023120TL23 - Letchworth / Baldock
09/10/2023120TL21 - Welwyn Garden City
09/10/2023120TL31 - Hertford
Further info: Xestia xanthographa
 
UK Moths
Mothdissection UK
Lepiforum.de Herts & Middlesex Moths (Full)
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