Camptogramma bilineata (Linnaeus, 1758)

Description: Wingspan 28-32mm. Adults of this species are quite variable both in colour and the intensity of markings on the wings. The moth is usually deep yellow and heavily marked with dark coloured cross lines; some individuals have a central band but this is not always present and varies in width and colour; adults trapped in coastal localities are often much paler and less heavily marked.

Key Identification Features:

• Deep yellow, heavily marked with crosslines
• Central band variable in width
• Fine white line along marginal edge of band

Sets:

Flight Period: From mid-June to the beginning of September.

Status: Common and widespread throughout southern counties scarcer further north, mainly recorded from well-known coastal localities.

Ecology: An attractive and variable species that occurs on a wide variety of habitats but never abundantly. Adults become active around dusk but appear at light sparingly. Occasionally found or disturbed during the day. Adults are attracted to various flowers such as ragwort Senecio spp and valerian. The larvae can be found from September to May on dock Rumex spp. and chickweed Cerastium spp. It overwinters as a larva.

Bradley & Fletcher number: 1742 Agassiz number: 70.059

Additional information:

UK Moths account

Caterpillar: