Spotted Sulphur Moth
Common NameSpotted Sulphur Moth
Scientific NameEurrhypis pollinalis
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPyralinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, white
HabitatDry grasslands, heathlands, open woodlands, chalk downs
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Western Asia
Host PlantsThymus, Origanum
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on the leaves of host plants, often spinning silk to create a shelter. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, usually in the soil or leaf litter near the host plant.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the dark ground color of the forewings contrasted with the bright white spots, particularly the two larger costal spots and the series of subterminal spots. The white fringe is also characteristic.
Description
A small moth with dark brown to blackish forewings featuring prominent, irregularly shaped white or cream spots and a distinct white fringe along the termen. The hindwings are typically a uniform dark grey-brown.
