Sandhill Rustic Moth
Luperina nickerlii gueneei
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Sandhill Rustic is one of Britain's rarest moths and the Sefton Coast holds its most important population. The subspecies gueneei is confined to coastal dune systems in north Merseyside and North Wales. The larvae feed exclusively on Sand Couch in the highest tide zone — one of the most hostile habitats for an insect. The moth was recorded at Birkdale in the 19th century, then not found again until 2007, when a survey of Birkdale Green Beach revealed a substantial colony. It remains a critical conservation concern.
At a Glance
| Order | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Noctuidae |
| Habitat | Mobile frontal dune · Sand Couch zone at highest tide line |
| Diet | Adults: minimal. Larvae: Sand Couch (Elytrigia juncea) exclusively — feeds inside leaves. |
| UK population | Red Data Book Vulnerable — fewer than 10 UK colonies of this subspecies |
| Sefton Coast | Birkdale Green Beach holds the most substantial colony of this subspecies in Britain |
| Conservation | UK Red List |
Where to See It
Birkdale Green Beach frontal dunes — the most important site in the UK. Strictly regulated moth trapping only.
Identification
Medium noctuid moth. Straw-yellow to grey-brown forewing with indistinct kidney-shaped spot. Unremarkable appearance — identified by habitat, season and coastal location. Similar to other wainscot moths.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Moth trapping at Birkdale Green Beach requires permission. The moth's extraordinary scarcity means any sighting should be reported to the Merseyside Biodiversity Group. The habitat — frontal dunes with Sand Couch at the highest tideline — is highly specific.
Conservation Status
UK Red List
This species is of serious conservation concern in the UK. Its presence on the Sefton Coast is important for local and national monitoring and habitat management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Sandhill Rustic confined to such specific habitat?
The subspecies gueneei lays eggs in late summer on Sand Couch plants that are lapped by the highest tides — an extraordinarily specific habitat requirement. The caterpillars can only complete development in the right conditions of sand moisture and plant growth provided by this high tide zone habitat. Any change in tidal patterns or beach profile can eliminate a colony.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.