Gypsy Moth (Lymantria dispar, (Linnaeus, 1758))

Erebidae: Lymantriinae

10376 Gypsy Moth Lymantria dispar, (Linnaeus, 1758)

Madzharovo, Eastern Rhodopi Mtns., 22nd June 2005

Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies

Madzharovo, Eastern Rhodopi Mtns., 22nd June 2005

Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies

2010-2016

2017

2018

2019

Arda valley, Eastern Rhodopi Mtns., 15th June 2013, males at light trap.

Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies

Cherven, Western Rhodopi Mtns., 29th June 2012, gynandromorph..

Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies

Oreshari Gorge, Easgtern Rhodopi Mtns., 5th June 2011

Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies

Arda valley, Eastern Rhodopi Mtns., 5th June 2011.

Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies

Mandraki, Lake Kerkini, N. Greece. 11th May 2014. 3rd instar.

Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies

General Information

This species was once widespread but is now only found in the UK as a rare immigrant.

Pupates in a crevice, in leaf litter or on the food plant.

Overwinters as Overwinters as an egg.
Male readily comes to light, sometimes in numbers. Female not.
Flies during the day

Forewing length: M 20-24mm. F 31-35mm.
Foodplant(s): Bog-myrtle (Myrica gale), Creeping Willow (Salix repens)
Flying: One generation, July-August
UK Presence: Immigrant
National status: Extinct

Habitat

Acidic bogs and fens.

Regional Information

Recorded in 18 (0.9%) of the 1900 10km squares of Bulgaria.

Last recorded in July 2013

Recorded date range (Adult): 13 June to 21 July

Similar Species

Kartala, Rila Mtns., 20th July 2012. Light trap.

Black Arches Lymantria monacha

Larva/Leafmine:

Larva Type:

Hairy

Colours:

Grey, brown, black, red, blue

No. of Proleg Pairs:

10376 Gypsy Moth Lymantria dispar, (Linnaeus, 1758)

BF2034 (ABH72.011)