Scarce Ermine
Common NameScarce Ermine
Scientific NameYponomeuta rorrella
FamilyYponomeutidae
SubfamilyYponomeutinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatWetlands, fens, marshes, riverbanks, and areas with its host plant.
Geographic RangeEurope and parts of Asia, including central and eastern Europe, and locally in southern England.
Host PlantsSalix alba, Salix spp.
Flight PeriodLate June to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed gregariously, creating communal silken webs on the leaves of White Willow. They overwinter as young larvae, and pupation occurs within the web.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its pure white forewings with black spots, lacking any yellowish tint. The specific arrangement of spots and its association with White Willow are key identifiers.
Description
A small, slender moth with pure white forewings densely covered in numerous small black spots. Its hindwings are plain grey, and it has long, filiform antennae.
