Oak Eggar
Common NameOak Eggar
Scientific NameLasiocampa quercus
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyLasiocampinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, orange
HabitatHeathland, moorland, open woodland, scrub, coastal dunes
Geographic RangeWestern Europe, including the British Isles
Host Plantsoak, willow, birch, heather, bramble, hawthorn
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large and hairy, overwintering before pupating in a tough, egg-shaped cocoon. Adults emerge in summer, typically having one generation per year.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive broad, lighter band across the forewings and the small white spot. Males are day-flying and fast, while females are larger, paler, and nocturnal.
Description
A stout-bodied moth with reddish-brown forewings featuring a broad, wavy orange-yellow band and a small white discal spot. The hindwings are similarly colored but often lack the distinct band.
