Variable Burnet
Common NameVariable Burnet
Scientific NameZygaena ephialtes
FamilyZygaenidae
SubfamilyZygaeninae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, red, white
HabitatDry grasslands, meadows, steppe habitats, open woodlands
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, parts of Asia (e.g., Turkey, Caucasus)
Host PlantsCoronilla varia, Coronilla emerus, Hippocrepis comosa
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are yellowish-green with black spots and stripes, overwintering before pupating in a silken cocoon attached to host plants or nearby vegetation.
Identification TipsLook for the combination of black wings with red and white spots, and a red abdominal band. The antennae are clubbed. Note the variability in spot color (red or yellow) and presence of white spots, which gives it its common name.
Description
A medium-sized day-flying moth with iridescent black wings featuring prominent red and white spots, and a distinctive red band on its abdomen.
