Herald Moth vs Buff Ermine Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Herald Moth Buff Ermine Moth
Scientific Name Scoliopteryx libatrix Spilosoma lutea
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Erebidae Erebidae
Size 40-46 mm wingspan 34-42 mm wingspan
Habitat Caves Farmland
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe, Asia, North America Europe, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Herald Moth

A distinctive moth with scalloped wing edges and orange patches that hibernates in caves, cellars, and outbuildings. One of the first moths to be seen each spring. Adults resemble dead leaves.

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Did You Know?

Often hibernates in caves alongside bats, and can survive freezing temperatures during winter.

Buff Ermine Moth

A creamy-buff moth with scattered dark spots and a distinctive dark streak along the forewing costa. It closely resembles the White Ermine but has warmer tones.

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Did You Know?

Unlike many ermine moths, it has a conspicuous dark diagonal streak near the wing tip.