New Forest Burnet
Common NameNew Forest Burnet
Scientific NameZygaena viciae
FamilyZygaenidae
SubfamilyZygaeninae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, red, metallic green
HabitatGrasslands, chalk downland, forest clearings
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia (historically found in the New Forest, UK)
Host PlantsVicia cracca, Vicia sativa, Lathyrus pratensis
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various vetch species, overwinter, and pupate in a papery cocoon attached to grass stems or leaves.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its metallic dark forewings with six distinct red spots, red hindwings, and clubbed antennae. Can be confused with other burnet moths, requiring careful examination of spot arrangement and wing shape.
Description
A small moth with metallic dark forewings typically adorned with six bright red spots, and red hindwings with a dark border.
