Willow-herb Day-moth
Common NameWillow-herb Day-moth
Scientific NameProserpinus proserpina
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, cream
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, clearings, meadows, often near host plants.
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, North Africa, parts of Asia.
Host PlantsEpilobium, Chamaenerion, Oenothera
Flight PeriodMay to July (sometimes a partial second generation in August)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are typically green or brown with a horn-like appendage that later reduces to a button. Pupation occurs in a cocoon underground.
Identification TipsKey features include the striking contrast of dark forewings with a prominent cream-white central band and a series of white submarginal spots. It is a day-flying moth often found near its willow-herb host plants.
Description
A medium-sized moth with dark brown to black forewings featuring a broad, irregular cream-white band across the middle and a row of small, distinct white spots along the outer margin.
