Hilaris Burnet Moth
Common NameHilaris Burnet Moth
Scientific NameZygaena hilaris
FamilyZygaenidae
SubfamilyZygaeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, red, black
HabitatDry grasslands, rocky slopes, open woodlands, calcareous areas
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe (e.g., Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Balkan Peninsula) and parts of North Africa
Host PlantsEryngium campestre, Eryngium bourgatii
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on species of Eryngium, particularly Eryngium campestre. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, often attached to vegetation. Adults are aposematically colored, indicating their toxicity due to cyanide compounds.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive orange-red forewings with a specific pattern of black spots and a black border. Its clubbed antennae and day-flying habit are also key features for identifying this burnet moth.
Description
This day-flying moth has a black body and antennae, with forewings that are bright orange-red, featuring several distinct black spots and a prominent black margin. The hindwings are typically red with a black border.
