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

Lappet - Bob Eade

Lappet

Lappet - Stuart Read

Lappet

Lappet

Lappet

Lappet - Dave Shenton

Lappet

Lappet

Lappet

Lappet (caterpillar) - Ryszard Szczygieł

Lappet (caterpillar)

Lappet

Lappet

Lappet

Lappet