Rambur's Pellicle
Common NameRambur's Pellicle
Scientific NamePellicle ramburii
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyLasiocampinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, cream, brown
HabitatDry grasslands, scrubland, rocky slopes, garrigue
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, North Africa
Host PlantsGenista, Cytisus, Thymus, Erica, Cistus
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are hairy and feed on various low-growing plants and shrubs. They pupate in a silken cocoon, with adults emerging in late summer to autumn.
Identification TipsMales are easily identified by their large, feathery antennae and the distinctive mottled black and cream pattern on their forewings. Females are larger with simpler antennae.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with a hairy body and prominent bipectinate antennae in males. Its forewings display a striking, irregular pattern of dark brown or black blotches on a pale cream or yellowish-white background.
