Cinnabar - Tyria jacobaeae

Wingspan 32-42 mm. Resembling no other British species, except perhaps the Burnets (Zygaenidae). The forewings are black with a red bar and the hind wings are all red. The caterpillars of the Cinnabar moth feed on the leaves and flowers of Common Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea). Occasionally they are found on other ragworts and groundsels.

Wherever Ragwort grows. Usually in long grassy places.

The flight period is May through July. It is generally nocturnal but is quite often disturbed during the day from long grass, low herbage etc. At night, it comes to light.

The distinctive larvae, with their yellow and black hoops, generally feed gregariously on Common Ragwort and other related plants.

This is a fairly common moth in much of Britain.  In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

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