Mottled Rustic (Caradrina morpheus, (Hufnagel, 1766))

General Information
This species always shows a distinctly large and dark reniform stigma and is fairly broad winged.

Pupates in loose soil.
Overwinters as Overwinters as a larva.
Both sexes come to light.

Forewing length: 13-16mm.
Foodplant(s): Common Nettle (Urtica dioica), docks (Rumex spp.), goosefoots (Chenopodium spp.), teasels (Dipsacus spp.), Hedge Bedstraw (Galium mollugo), Common Hop (Humulus lupulus), Goat Willow (Salix caprea), herbaceous plants
Flying: One generation, June-mid August
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Common

Habitat

Farmland, gardens, grassland, heathland scrub and woodland.

Regional Information

Recorded in 144 (53.3%) of the 270 2km squares of Huntingdonshire.

Last recorded in December 2025

Recorded date range (Adult): 04 May to 15 December

Recorded date range (Larva/Leafmine): 05 July to 12 July

Similar Species

Uncertain Hoplodrina octogenaria (=alsines)

Earith

Rustic Hoplodrina blanda

2387 (ABH73.092) Mottled Rustic Caradrina morpheus, (Hufnagel, 1766)

KR09417