Sword-grass, North East Wales

[fletcher]

Sword-grass, North East Wales:

Hi All,

I have had the attached image sent to me of what seems to be Sword-grass (Xylena exsoleta). As I have said on many occasions I am no expert on moth ID so if anyone could confirm, that would be really helpful.

It seems, from what I've read, that this is an uncommon moth, is that right ?

Many thanks,
Eric

[SteveH]

Hi Eric,

With such a stark contrast between the leading and trailing halves of the fore-wings I'd be inclined toward Red Sword-grass rather than Sword-grass. The latter is tagged as Nationally Scarce B.

Hope this helps,

Cheers,
Steve

[fletcher]

That's great, thanks Steve.

A new one for me so it is good to get a confirmed ID.

Thanks again,
Eric

[SteveMcBill]

Red Sword-grass (Xylena vetusta) - See here: http://www.ukmoths.org.uk/species/xylena-vetusta

Sword-grass (Xylena exsoleta) - See here: https://www.ukmoths.org.uk/species/xylena-exsoleta

Steve