73.035 BF2290

Reed Dagger Simyra albovenosa

(Goeze, 1781)

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Wingspan 32-40 mm.

This species more resembles the wainscots (Mythimna spp.) than its closer relations, and because it also has a powdery appearance used to be known as the Powdered Wainscot.

It is confined to parts of East Anglia and the south coast, inhabiting reed beds and fenland.

There are two broods, flying in May, then again during July and August.

The larvae feed on common reed (Phragmites australis) and a number of other plants associated with the habitat.