Taken at Hackpen Hill, Oxon., on June 11th 2023. (© David Hastings)
(1/640th sec at f11)

Larva. Taken at Aston Upthorpe Downs, Oxon., on July 8th 2017. (© David Hastings)
(1/125th sec at f14)

Description

Family: Erebidae (ABH : 72.031)

Wing span: 34 - 46mm

This moth is unmistakable, with a long broad red line and two red spots on the forewing, and an all-red hindwing.

It can be found in most of the British Isles, but not in northern Scotland.

It is most numerous in well-drained rabbit-grazed grassland, but also found in many other open habitats.

There is one generation, from May to early August. It over-winters as a pupa.

The main larval foodplant is Common Ragwort. Both leaves and flowers are eaten. Other ragworts and groundsels are sometimes used.

It is easily disturbed during the day, and flies in sunshine.

Earliest UK sighting: 27th April ; Latest UK sighting: 15th July

Sightings