66.005 (1633) Small Eggar Eriogaster lanestris (Linnaeus, 1758)
Status
Extinct. Rare.
Flight period
History
One record. Lennon (1863) found it at Lochaber, close to Mabie Forest (VC73), but stated it was not common.
The 'Moths of Great Britain and Ireland' (1992) state it was formerly in southern Scotland but is in serious decline due to various changes in its habitat; it was widespread and locally common.
Life cycle
One generation. Overwinters as a pupa, in a cocoon close to the ground. During this phase it can pass anything between one and seven years before the adult emerges. Larvae are present April to July.
Larval foodplants
Larvae feed mainly on Blackthorn and Hawthorn, but also elms, Apple and Grey Willow.
Identification
The reddish-brown forewing with white central spot and cross-line, together with its early flight time is diagnostic.
Habitat
Hedgerows and scrub.
Recorders' notes
Specimen or quality photo required for record acceptance. |  Distribution map displays records from the National Biodiversity Network (See terms and conditions). The following datasets are included:
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