Erebidae: Arctiinae

2047 (ABH72.046) Scarce Footman Eilema complana, (Linnaeus, 1758)

KR10490

Great Staughton
Great Staughton
 Photo © Peter Bissell
Great Staughton
 Photo © Peter Bissell
 pre-2000
 2000-2009
 2010-2019
 2020-onwards
Great Staughton
Great Staughton
 Photo © Peter Bissell
Great Staughton
Great Staughton
 Photo © Peter Bissell
Monks Wood
Monks Wood
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Whitelye Moor, Gwent
Whitelye Moor, Gwent
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Earith
Earith
 Photo © David Griffiths
Earith
Earith
 Photo © David Griffiths
Monks Wood
Monks Wood
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies


General Information

This species holds its wings furled more tightly around the body than the Common Footman.

 

Pupates in a crevice or in leaf litter.

Overwinters as Overwinters as a larva.
Both sexes readily come to light, sometimes in numbers.

Forewing length: 15-18mm.
Foodplant(s): lichen, algae
Flying: One generation, July-August
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Local

Habitat

Heathland, moorland and sand-dunes.

Regional Information

Recorded in 114 (42.2%) of the 270 2km squares of Huntingdonshire.

Last recorded in August 2025

Recorded date range (Adult): 11 June to 10 October

Recorded date range (Larva/Leafmine): 11 May to 11 May

Similar Species
Pigmy Footman Eilema pygmaeola
Great Staughton
Great Staughton
 Photo © Peter Bissell
Common Footman Eilema lurideola

Local
Larva/Leafmine:
Larva Type:
Hairy
Colours:
Brown, black, orange
No. of Proleg Pairs:
5