This species is easily identified by the protruding snout and unusual resting wing posture where the hind wings protruding in front of the forewings. There is little variation in the colouration except for rare pale or black forms.
The adults are incapable of feeding. They fly at night and are attracted to light in small numbers. The caterpillars can be found from August to late the following May, feeding at night and overwintering as small larvae. They pupate in a tough cocoon on the ground.
Size and Family
- Family – Eggar moths (Lasiocampidae)
- Large Sized
- Wingspan Range – 56-84mm
Conservation Status
- UK BAP: Not Listed
- Common
Caterpillar Food Plants
Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Crab Apple (Malus sylvestris) and cultivated Apple (Malus domestica). Also recorded on sallows, Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) and Alder Buckthorn (Frangula alnus).
Habitat
Hedgerows and open woodland
Distribution
- Countries – England and Wales
- Common. Well distributed in England south of the Severn, extending to the Wash and locally to the Humber. Occasional records in south Wales and the Channel Islands.
Lappet - Marcell Kárpáti
Lappet
Marcell Kárpáti
Lappet - Bob Eade
Lappet
Bob Eade
Lappet - Stuart Read
Lappet
Stuart Read
Lappet
Lappet - Dave Shenton
Lappet
Dave Shenton
Lappet
Lappet (caterpillar) - Ryszard Szczygieł
Lappet (caterpillar)
Ryszard Szczygieł