Maps updated: April 2008

Timandra griseata (Petersen, 1902)

Description: Wingspan 30-34mm. A distinctive species - adults have a pinkish-red stripe extending from the apex of the forewings to the inner margin of the hindwings. There is also a reddish fringe on all wings and a small discal spot on the forewing.Easily recognised by combination of wing shape, colouration and patterning.

Key Identification Features:

• Easily recognised by combination of wing shape, colouration and patterning.

Sets:

Flight Period: Double-brooded from May to early July and August to September according to Skinner. The only N. Ireland specimen was trapped in mid-August.

Status: Rare, recorded for the first time in N. Ireland in 1996 at Killard Point NNR, Down. Since its discovery there have been no further records despite specific searching at Killard and increased recording in potentially suitable sites. With no further evidence that the species is resident then it must be assumed that this individual was an immigrant. Elsewhere in Ireland it has been recorded mainly in the west.

Ecology: A species commonly associated with weedy, ruderal habitats, particularly those that have an abundance of its foodplants, docks and sorrels Rumex spp, and Knotgrass Polygonum aviculare. The larvae can be found from September until April. It overwinters as a larva.