Wild Wednesday – Small magpie moth | Latest news

The small magpie moth, scientific name, Anania hortulata, is a striking and common species found in the UK, with bright white wings with bold black-brown markings, and a yellow head. Its distinctive speckled colouration has given it the common name of 'magpie' moth.

This moth is medium-sized, quite butterfly-like in appearance. During the summer months it can be seen in gardens (where it helps maintain ecological balance) as well as in parks, woodland, scrub and heather moorland, wherever its host plants (like nettles) are present. It is active both in the day and the night.

The caterpillars, which are greenish white with black spots, live in loosely spun webs and feed on a variety of shrubs, including hazel, hawthorn, privet and currants.

It has a wingspan of approximately 24 to 28 millimetres and is notable for its distinctive fluttering flight.

Not threatened and considered a common species in the UK.

Read more here: Magpie moth | The Wildlife Trusts