72.03 BF2067

Jersey Tiger Euplagia quadripunctaria

(Poda, 1761)

Wingspan 42-52 mm.

One of the most attractive of the Tiger moths, this species was until recently restricted in distribution to the Channel Islands and parts of the south coast .

On the mainland it is commonest in south Devon, but colonies have recently appeared in Dorset and the Isle of Wight, and it has also been found in other southern counties.

It now seems to be expanding its range quite quickly. There is also a thriving population in parts of London, but whether this is due to range expansion or the result of accidental introduction is still unclear.

It flies both in the daytime, when it can be found feeding on various flowers, as well as at night, when it is attracted to light.

The main flight period is July to September. The hairy larvae feed on a range of herbaceous plants including nettle (Urtica).