Description: Wingspan 32-50. This species takes its name from the map-like markings on the forewings which can vary in both colour and in pattern. The variety known as ab. gallicus which is present in small numbers throughout most populations here has uniform reddish brown forewings with a small pale discal spot. End of May until beginning of August, exceptionally later.

Irish Distribution: Widespread and common in all counties including Rathlin Island.

Ecology: The most commonly encountered of the four species of swifts; found on a wide variety of habitats including heaths, bogs, rough grassland and open woodland. Unlike other swifts this species is frequently seen at light, often in good numbers. The larva is subterranean, feeding on bracken and the roots of various grasses. It has a two year life cycle overwintering twice in the larval stage.

Distribution Map from NBN: Hepialus fusconebulosa at National Biodiversity Network mapping facility, data for UK.

iNaturalist: Hepialus fusconebulosa at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.