Erebidae: Lymantriidae

2034 (ABH72.011) Gypsy Moth Lymantria dispar, (Linnaeus, 1758)

KR10376

Hemingford Grey, 19th Aug. 2021. Light trap.
Hemingford Grey, 19th Aug. 2021. Light trap.
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Hemingford Grey, 19th Aug. 2021. Light trap.
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
 pre-2000
 2000-2009
 2010-2019
 2020-onwards
Bulgaria, June 2005
Bulgaria, June 2005
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies


General Information

This species was once widespread but is now only found in the UK as a rare immigrant.

 

Pupates in a crevice, in leaf litter or on the food plant.

Overwinters as Overwinters as an egg.
Male readily comes to light, sometimes in numbers. Female not.
Flies during the day

Forewing length: M 20-24mm. F 31-35mm.
Foodplant(s): Bog-myrtle (Myrica gale), Creeping Willow (Salix repens)
Flying: One generation, July-August
UK Presence: Immigrant
National status: Extinct

Habitat

Acidic bogs and fens.

Regional Information

Recorded in 28 (10.4%) of the 270 2km squares of Huntingdonshire.

Last recorded in August 2025

Recorded date range (Adult): 26 May to 03 September

Similar Species
Freudenstadt, Germany, August 2012
Freudenstadt, Germany, August 2012
 Photo © Peter Bissell
Black Arches Lymantria monacha

Extinct
Larva/Leafmine:
Larva Type:
Hairy
Colours:
Grey, brown, black, red, blue
No. of Proleg Pairs:
5