Transalpine burnet moth
Common NameTransalpine burnet moth
Scientific NameZygaena transalpina
FamilyZygaenidae
SubfamilyZygaeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblue, red, black
HabitatDry grasslands, meadows, rocky slopes, open woodlands
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe
Host PlantsHippocrepis comosa, Coronilla varia
Flight PeriodJune to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on Horseshoe Vetch and other Fabaceae, overwintering as caterpillars. They pupate in a silken cocoon attached to vegetation.
Identification TipsLook for the six distinct red spots on the metallic blue-grey forewings and the red hindwings with a broad black margin. Its clubbed antennae are also a key feature distinguishing it from butterflies.
Description
This moth has metallic blue-grey forewings adorned with six distinct red spots, and red hindwings with a prominent black border. Its body is black with a metallic sheen, and it possesses characteristic clubbed antennae.
