Local in fens, damp meadows, bogs and damp grassland throughout much of England, Wales and southern Scotland. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread but local in bogs and marshes, most common in the New Forest. Wingspan 22-25 mm. Could be confused with
Small Dotted Buff Photedes minima, however in Small Rufous the hindwing is always paler than the forewing. Larva feeds on Jointed Rush, Soft-rush and Rush.