Favoured Footman
Common NameFavoured Footman
Scientific NameEilema maculosa
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorscream, orange, black
HabitatWoodlands, heathlands, grasslands, gardens, often in damp areas
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, extending into parts of Asia
Host Plantslichens, algae
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are dark and hairy, feeding on lichens and algae. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in a cocoon in spring, with adults emerging in the summer months.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive creamy yellow forewings with bold, irregular dark brown blotches. The bright orange-yellow hindwings with a dark margin are also a key identifying feature.
Description
A small moth with forewings featuring a striking pattern of irregular dark brown patches on a creamy yellow ground. The hindwings are bright orange-yellow with a distinct dark brown border.
