Spotted Burnet
Common NameSpotted Burnet
Scientific NameZygaena punctum
FamilyZygaenidae
SubfamilyZygaeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, red
HabitatDry grasslands, steppe habitats, rocky slopes, meadows
Geographic RangeSouthern and Eastern Europe, parts of Western Asia (e.g., Turkey, Caucasus)
Host PlantsCoronilla varia, Lotus corniculatus
Flight PeriodJune to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are typically green with yellow stripes and black spots, overwintering as larvae. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon attached to vegetation.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive pattern of red spots on dark forewings and red hindwings with a black border. The prominent, clubbed, and curled antennae are characteristic of Burnet moths, and the specific spot arrangement helps distinguish it from other *Zygaena* species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a black, hairy body and prominent clubbed antennae that curl at the tip. Its forewings are dark blue-black with large, vibrant red spots or patches, while the hindwings are predominantly red with a dark border.
