Identification

The large black spots at the costa separate it from Clouded Magpie, the only confusion species.

Recording method

Adult comes to light in small numbers, boldly marked, distinctive caterpillar seen on a wide range of shrubs.

Life cycle

One generation. Overwinters as a small larva during late August to mid-June, with pupation taking place in a cocoon on the foodplant.

Larval foodplants

Blackthorn, Black Currant, Garden Privet, hawthorns, Red Currant, spindles and heather.

Habitat

Moorland, woodland and hedgerows.

History

First recorded for Dumfries and Galloway in 1862 for VC72 near Dumfries by Lennon who stated it was ‘common all over the country’, in 1870 for VC73 in Colvend parish by White and in 1899 for VC74 near Monreith by Morton.