Maps updated: April 2008

Atethmia centrago (Haworth, 1809)

Description: Wingspan 32-36 mm. Forewings are deep yellow which get darker towards the outer margin. The central band is darker and outlined with a fine pale line. There is normally a darker subcostal dot but this is not always clearly defined. The antemedian and post median lines are pale brown. Hindwings white with a silky sheen and darker brown fringe.

Key Identification Features:

• Coloration of the forewings
• Subcostal dot
• White silky hindwings

Sets:

Flight Period: Early August to mid-September.

Status: Widely distributed across southern counties and in scattered localities along the Antrim coastline. Recent records show it to be more widespread that was previously thought.

Ecology: A woodland species that favours areas where Ash Fraxinus excelsior is well established. Little is known about the habits of this species in N. Ireland. Adults appear sparingly at light and show little interest in flowers. The larvae are nocturnal and feed from April to the beginning of June on Ash Fraxinus excelsior. They stay concealed by day at the base of the foodplant or in a small crevice among the bark. It overwinters as an egg.

World Distribution: Throughout western Europe from Spain to the Netherlands.

Caterpillar: