The Herald - Scoliopteryx libatrix

Quite a spectacular species, this colourful red brown moth has a distinctive wing shape and bold wing markings.

Open broadleaved woodland, hedgerows, parks and gardens.

Overwinters as an adult and as a result, can be one of the last species to be seen in one year and one of the first in the next. It is also sometimes found hibernating inside barns and outbuildings. The adults are attracted to both light and sugar.

The larvae feed on Willow and Poplar.

Fairly common and well distributed over much of Britain, though it is less common in Scotland. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = A (common and resident)