Buff Ermine
Common NameBuff Ermine
Scientific NameSpilosoma luteum
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbuff, yellow, black
HabitatGardens, woodlands, hedgerows, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantswillow, birch, oak, dock, plantain
Flight PeriodMay to July (sometimes August/September)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are hairy, dark brown with a reddish stripe, feeding on a wide range of deciduous trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. They overwinter as pupae.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive buff or yellowish wings with scattered black spots, particularly a row of spots on the forewings and a central spot on the hindwings. The hairy body and antennae are also key features.
Description
A medium-sized, furry moth with creamy-buff to yellowish wings adorned with scattered black spots. Its body is also buff and very hairy.
