Buff Footman
Common NameBuff Footman
Scientific NameEilema depressa
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsbuff, orange, brown
HabitatWoodlands, heathland, gardens, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantslichens, algae
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on lichens and algae growing on trees and rocks, often overwintering before pupating in a cocoon. The adult moths are nocturnal.
Identification TipsLook for the contrasting bright orange-yellow head, thorax, and costal streak against the otherwise duller buff-brown forewings. The hindwings are typically a paler grey-yellow.
Description
A small, slender moth with plain buff-brown forewings, distinguished by its bright orange-yellow head, thorax, and the costal (leading) edge of the forewings.
