White Footman
Common NameWhite Footman
Scientific NameManulea complana
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)31.5
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorspale grey, yellow, black
HabitatWoodlands, heathland, gardens, often near lichen-covered trees or rocks
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe and parts of Asia; introduced to North America
Host Plantslichens, algae
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are dark and hairy, feeding on lichens and algae. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in a cocoon often incorporating larval hairs.
Identification TipsKey features include the pale, often slightly greyish-white forewings, bright yellow hindwings and abdomen, and its characteristic resting posture with wings held flat and tightly against the body.
Description
A small, slender moth characterized by its pale whitish-grey forewings, which are tightly folded at rest, contrasting with bright yellow hindwings and abdomen, and prominent black eyes.
