Bird-cherry Ermine

A common resident from the south midlands northwards but widely considered an immigrant in the south. The forewing is white with black dots which are considerably more numerous than in related species.

Can be seen in large numbers both as a caterpillar and adult moth, often coming to light.

Flight Season

Flies at night from June to September in a single brood.

Size and Family

• Family – Yponomeutinae
• Small Sized
• Wingspan Range – 16-25mm

Conservation Status

• UK BAP: Not listed
• Common resident/Immigrant

Caterpillar Food Plants

The caterpillars feed gregariously in a web on and are sometimes a pest of Bird Cherry (Prunus padus). The web can cover whole trees.

Habitat

Can be found almost anywhere, often far from the known foodplant.

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland

• Imported/possible resident