Appearance
The wingspan of these moths reaches 45–60 mm. They have black forewings with white, broad patches and spots. The orange hind wings have black spots. The thorax is black and the abdommen is reddish-orange. The caterpillars are black with light brown tufts of hairs, while the head and the legs are reddish. They can reach a length of about 12-12 mm.
Behavior
The moths are nocturnal and attracted by light, but the females fly also during the day. By day these moths can be found resting on leaves. Moths of this species fly from March to July depending on the location.The caterpillars feed on a variety of herbaceous plants, mainly Dandelion, Plantains, Deadnettles, Yarrow, Blackberries, Nettles, Knapweeds and Strawberries.
They overwinter, but they are relatively sensitive to frost. They can be seen in the spring after hibernation while feeding or seeking for suitable places to pupate. They pupate in May on the ground.
Habitat
This species inhabits woodland, areas with bushes and hedges and sunny open grassy areas.References:
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