The Gem - Nycterosea obstipata

Wingspan 18 to 21 mm. The species is sexually dimorphic, the male being light brown with a darker central band, and the female slightly larger and darker, with a white spot on each forewing.

A migrant that is most often seen at light.

It usually appears in late summer and autumn.

The larvae feed on various low-growing plants.

Another continental species, which is a regular migrant to the British Isles, mainly in the south. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as a migrant.

Occasional in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = C (very scarce resident or rare migrant).