Crocallis elinguaria (Linnaeus, 1758)

Description: Wingspan 40-46mm. The ground colour of the forewings is generally dark yellow. The central band is clearly defined and darker; there is a small dark discal spot near the costal edge.

Key Identification Features:

• Forewing with well-defined central band with dark discal spot in middle of band towards the costa
• Hindwings pale yellow white with small discal spot
• Hairy thorax

Sets:

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

Status: Common and widespread throughout N. Ireland particularly in Down, north Armagh and Fermanagh. Many of the recent records in the north are from coastal localities, although it does appear to be scarcer in Antrim. The woodlands around Glenarm may have undetected populations.

Ecology: A distinctive species which favours woodlands but also found on heaths and bogs that have adjacent woodland. Adults come frequently to light in small numbers. The larvae can be found from April to July on a wide variety of trees and shrubs and are occasionally seen from late spring onwards. It overwinters in the egg stage.

World Distribution: Across Europe to eastern Siberia.

Bradley & Fletcher number: 1921 Agassiz number: 70.241

Additional information:

UK Moths account

Caterpillar: