Zygaenidae

54.009 Narrow-bordered Five-spot Burnet Zygaena lonicerae lonicerae (Scheven, 1777)

Channel Islands

Zygaena lonicerae insularis Tremewan, 1960

Ireland

Talisker Burnet Zygaena lonicerae jocelynae Tremewan, 1962

RDB Protected Species Hebrides

Zygaena lonicerae latomarginata (Tutt, 1899)

Common - north to Edinburgh (not far SW England and CW Wales)

Similar species: There is a rare form with yellow spots. Five-spot Burnet Zygaena trifolii is very difficult to distinguish from this species although the red spots are often touching which is much less frequent with Narrow-bordered Five-spot Burnet. If unsure check the genitalia (which are also very similar).

Forewing: 15 to 19mm

Habitats: Rough grassland, calcareous downland, uncut road verges and embankments, damp meadows, marshland margins, woodland clearings and rides.

Habits: The moth flies in warm weather and is often numerous at thistles, knapweed, scabious and many other flowers. It is easy to find when at rest as it sits exposed on stems and flowers.

Foodplant: The larva feeds mainly on Meadow Vetchling, Red Clover, Greater Bird's-foot Trefoil and sometimes Common Bird's-foot Trefoil, Bitter-vetch and White Clover. It overwinters as a larva and can be found sitting exposed in the spring. It pupates in a white papery cocoon exposed high on the stem of a grass or other plant.