description Five-spot Burnet Moth Overview
The five-spot burnet (Zygaena trifolii) is a day-flying moth in the family Zygaenidae, found across Europe and parts of western Asia. It inhabits damp meadows, grassland, and coastal areas where its larval food plants, including bird's-foot trefoil, are present. The adult moth has dark metallic forewings with red spotting—typically five spots, though the number can vary—and a dark abdomen. Adults fly from June to August.
help Five-spot Burnet Moth FAQ
What is the scientific name of the five-spot burnet moth?
Its scientific name is Zygaena trifolii. It is a day-flying moth in the family Zygaenidae, not a butterfly.
What does the five-spot burnet caterpillar eat?
The larvae feed mainly on bird's-foot trefoil, including Lotus corniculatus and related Lotus species. They live on the food plant and overwinter as larvae before pupating low in the vegetation.
When can you see adult five-spot burnet moths?
The species is generally single-brooded, with adults appearing from roughly June into July or August depending on the region. Adults fly in daylight and often visit flowers in sunny grassland.
Where does Zygaena trifolii live?
It is associated with damp meadows, marshes, wet heaths, coastal grassland, and some dry calcareous sites where its food plants grow. In Britain, local populations occur in parts of southern England, Wales, and the southwest.
explore Explore More
Similar to Five-spot Burnet Moth
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
