Hantsmoths

Common in calcareous grassland, gardens, farmland, heathland and woodland throughout much of the British Isles. Only separated from M. didyma 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 widespread, 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 Lesser Common Rustic M. didyma and Remm's Rustic M. remmi, except by dissection of the genitalia. Larva feeds on various grasses, including Cock's-foot, Tall Fescue, Tufted Hair-grass and certain cereal crops.