Wingspan 32 to 40 mm. The forewing has a brown streak along the pale central vein. The outer cross row of dark dots is usually well developed.

This species can be hard to seperate from the Common Wainscot. Look out for the more angular wings,
a different dot pattern on the forewing, dots on the hindwing and a line across the "forehead" (see  http://www.northumberlandmoths.org.uk/files/idtips/2197-southern-wainscot.jpg)

Found in reedbeds

The moths fly in July and are attracted to light.

The overwintering larvae feed on reed (Phragmites) and canary grass (Phalaris), hiding in the stems during the day.

Having a scattered distribution throughout England and Wales, it is commonest in the south and local further north into Cumbria. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as local.

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