MacCulloch's Forester Moth
Common NameMacCulloch's Forester Moth
Scientific NameZygaena ephialtes
FamilyZygaenidae
SubfamilyZygaeninae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white, yellow, orange
HabitatDry grasslands, meadows, open woodlands, steppe habitats
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, parts of Asia
Host PlantsCoronilla varia, Hippocrepis comosa, various Fabaceae
Flight PeriodJune to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThis species is univoltine, with larvae overwintering before pupating in a silken cocoon. Larvae feed on various legumes.
Identification TipsKey features include black wings with a variable pattern of white spots (though red or yellow forms exist), a distinct yellow or orange collar, and characteristic clubbed antennae.
Description
A medium-sized moth with black wings adorned with distinct white spots, a black body, and often a prominent yellow or orange collar.
