Despite the lack (almost) of any white edging to the kidney-mark, is this Black Rustic, (rather than Deep-brown Dart)? FL of 19-20 mm probably too big for the latter. Not had one yet this year so haven't got my eye in! Thanks, Phil T
Hello Phil, Difficult to be sure without the moth in the hand because cameras aren't good at reproducing glossiness (Black Rustic has a glossy finish and Deep-brown Dart is matt), but I'd probably go for Deep-brown Dart in this case. Looking at the antennae would have helped because those of the male Deep-brown Dart are noticeably feathered. I'm sure you'll get plenty more of both species!
Thanks Dave, I actually noted it as Deep-brown Dart when I took it from the trap. It wasn't until I looked at the photo more closely that I began to have doubts, but by then it was too late to examine the individual further!
Hello Phil,
ReplyDeleteDifficult to be sure without the moth in the hand because cameras aren't good at reproducing glossiness (Black Rustic has a glossy finish and Deep-brown Dart is matt), but I'd probably go for Deep-brown Dart in this case. Looking at the antennae would have helped because those of the male Deep-brown Dart are noticeably feathered. I'm sure you'll get plenty more of both species!
Thanks Dave,
ReplyDeleteI actually noted it as Deep-brown Dart when I took it from the trap. It wasn't until I looked at the photo more closely that I began to have doubts, but by then it was too late to examine the individual further!