Slender Scotch Burnet
Common NameSlender Scotch Burnet
Scientific NameZygaena loti
FamilyZygaenidae
SubfamilyZygaeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblue-green, red, black
HabitatAlpine meadows, dry grasslands, rocky slopes, often on calcareous soils.
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, parts of Asia (from Spain to Russia, Caucasus, Turkey, Iran).
Host PlantsLotus corniculatus, Trifolium spp., Anthyllis vulneraria
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, and the larvae feed on legumes before overwintering. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon attached to vegetation, with adults emerging in the summer months.
Identification TipsKey features include the metallic blue-green sheen of the forewings, the specific arrangement of 5-6 bright red spots, and its robust, black body with clubbed antennae. It is often found nectaring on various flowers in its habitat.
Description
A small, day-flying moth characterized by its iridescent blue-green forewings adorned with several bright red spots. It has a black, hairy body and distinctive clubbed antennae.
