Spotted Footman
Common NameSpotted Footman
Scientific NameDysauxes punctata
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatDry grasslands, open woodlands, scrubland, and warm, sunny areas.
Geographic RangeSouthern and Central Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia.
Host Plantslichens, mosses, Plantago, Thymus, Sedum
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy and dark-colored, feeding primarily on lichens, mosses, and various low-growing herbaceous plants. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the striking orange and black wavy pattern on the forewings, which distinguishes it from other footman moths. Its relatively small size also helps in identification.
Description
A small moth characterized by its bright orange forewings adorned with irregular, wavy black bands and a few distinct black spots. The hindwings are typically a plainer orange or yellow.
