Lunar-spotted Pinion (Cosmia pyralina, ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775))

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

Lesser-spotted Pinion Cosmia affinis

White-spotted Pinion Cosmia diffinis

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

KR09549