Ashworth’s rustic  (Xestia ashworthii)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Biology

Adults of this single-brooded moth are present from mid-June to August and are attracted to light (2).The eggs are laid in July on the foodplants, which include common rock-rose (Helianthemum nummularium), wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum), harebell (Campanula rotundifolium), and a range of other plants. The young caterpillars feed for a period before going into hibernation. They emerge the following spring and begin to feed again. They are active during the day, and also at night if the weather is warm enough. Pupation takes place in May, either in the soil or beneath moss. The adult moths emerge from the pupa in June or July (3).

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