Brimstone Moth
Common NameBrimstone Moth
Scientific NameOpisthograptis luteolata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsyellow, reddish-brown
HabitatGardens, woodlands, hedgerows, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, and parts of Asia
Host Plantshawthorn, blackthorn, birch, willow, elm, rowan
Flight PeriodMay to June (first brood), August to September (second brood)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are green or brown, resembling twigs, and feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate on the host plant or in leaf litter, with the species typically having two broods per year.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its vibrant lemon-yellow coloration, the prominent reddish-brown patches at the wing tips, and the small dark spot on each forewing. The hindwings are also yellow with a similar reddish-brown mark at the tornus.
Description
This moth has bright lemon-yellow wings, often with a slightly paler body. Each forewing features a distinctive reddish-brown patch at the apex and a smaller, often triangular, reddish-brown mark near the tornus, along with a small dark central spot.
