Six-spot Burnet Moth
Image: Edmund Evans / Richard Doyle / Andrew Lang (Public domain)
Common NameSix-spot Burnet Moth
Scientific NameZygaena filipendulae
FamilyZygaenidae
SubfamilyZygaeninae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsblack, red
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, coastal areas, open woodlands
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, and parts of Asia
Host PlantsBird's-foot Trefoil, clover, vetch
Flight PeriodJune to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on host plants. Larvae are yellow-green with black spots and feed on legumes. Pupae are formed in a distinctive yellow, boat-shaped silken cocoon attached to grass stems.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its metallic dark forewings with six red spots and contrasting bright red hindwings. It is active during the day and often seen slowly fluttering or basking on flowers.
Description
A striking day-flying moth with a robust, dark body. Its forewings are metallic black with six distinct red spots, while its hindwings are bright red with a narrow black border.
