Hantsmoths

Common in calcareous grassland, gardens, farmland, heathland and woodland throughout much of the British Isles. Only separated from M. secalis and M. remmi in the 1980s, and individuals are mostly recorded as an aggregate of the three species. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight distinctly less common than M. secalis, but since most Mesapamea are not specifically identified, the maps do not reflect the full picture. Wingspan 28-34 mm. Highly polymorphic, and impossible to distinguish from Common Rustic M. secalis and Remm's Rustic M. remmi, except by dissection of the genitalia. Larva feeds on various grasses, including Cock's-foot, Red Fescue, Sheep's-fescue, Tall Fescue and certain cereal crops.