Brimstone Moth - Opisthograptis luteolata

Description

Wingspan 32-37 mm. A handsome yellow moth with red markings on the wing margins.

Identification difficulty
Habitat

In any suitable habitat.

When to see it

Occurring in three overlapping generations in the south, graduating to just one brood in the far north. Adults can be expected on the wing at any time from April to October, depending on the locality and number of generations.

Life History

The larvae feed on a range of trees and bushes, including Hawthorn and Blackthorn.

UK Status

A common and widespread species in Britain. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

VC55 Status

Very common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = A (common and resident)

Reference
70.226 BF1906

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Species profile

Common names
Brimstone Moth
Species group:
Moths
Kingdom:
Animalia
Order:
Lepidoptera
Family:
Geometridae
Records on NatureSpot:
1769
First record:
01/06/1948 (Wesley, Isaac)
Last record:
12/05/2025 (Hagley, Neil)

Total records by month

% of records within its species group

10km squares with records

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