Noctuidae: Xyleninae

2319 (ABH73.217) Lunar-spotted Pinion Cosmia pyralina, ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

KR09549

 Photo © Barry Dickerson
Lunar-spotted Pinion
 Photo © Barry Dickerson
 pre-2000
 2000-2009
 2010-2019
 2020-onwards
Monks Wood
Monks Wood
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Monks Wood
Monks Wood
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Monks Wood
Monks Wood
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Monks Wood
Monks Wood
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies


General Information

This is one of three rather similar Cosmia species found in the UK. This species generally has broader forewings and paler hindwings.

 

Pupates in leaf litter.

Overwinters as Overwinters as an egg.
Both sexes come to light.

Forewing length: 13-16mm.
Foodplant(s): Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), hawthorns (Crataegus spp.), Apple (Malus domestica), Bullace (Prunus domestica), elms (Ulmus spp.)
Flying: One generation, early July-late August
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Local

Habitat

Woodland, scrub, hedgerows and parks.

Regional Information

Recorded in 88 (32.6%) of the 270 2km squares of Huntingdonshire.

Last recorded in July 2023

Recorded date range (Adult): 21 June to 02 September

Recorded date range (Larva/Leafmine): 05 May to 12 July

Similar Species
ex. Larva, Staughton Moor
ex. Larva, Staughton Moor
 Photo © Peter Bissell
Lesser-spotted Pinion Cosmia affinis
 Photo © Barry Dickerson
White-spotted Pinion Cosmia diffinis

Local
Larva/Leafmine:
Larva Type:
Smooth
Colours:
Green, yellow, white, black
No. of Proleg Pairs:
5