White-mantled Wainscot Archanara neurica
The White-mantled Wainscot (Archanara neurica) is a scarce reedbed moth whose larvae feed within the stems of Common Reed (Phragmites australis), making it entirely dependent on extensive, well-managed reedbed. It is largely confined to coastal East Anglia, and Suffolk’s reedbeds are among the most important in Britain for this species. Key sites include the RSPB reserves at Minsmere and Lakenheath, as well as the extensive reedbeds of the Waveney Valley and Blyth estuary. Flying in July and August, it readily comes to light and is a regular feature of moth-trapping records from reedbed sites across the county. Maintaining a large-scale, traditionally managed reedbed is essential for its conservation. Image: © Paolo Mazzei, iNaturalist.
Find out more: iNaturalist, UK Moths, Suffolk Moths
Suffolk’s Priority Moth Species
Key
Listed as a conservation priority in Suffolk’s Biodiversity Action Plan.
Closely associated with Suffolk’s landscape and natural identity.
Identified as a key priority for recovery under Suffolk’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
Has a Species of the Month article attached.
Archived action plan, 2003