Status
Scarce but increasing.
Several West Norfolk recent records (2020+) indicate that the species is slowly spreading north in to Norfolk from the southern counties.
Day-flying species (also comes to light) found in damp areas such as fens, marshes, river banks, as well as rocky cliffs near the sea. Locally common in southern and south-west England, south Wales and some areas in North-west England.
C.G. Barrett, 1889 "Two specimens have been taken at Burgh near Aylsham, by Mr. Godfrey Burr". Other historic records include larvae introduced to Ranworth Fen from Wicken Fen (Cambs) in 1873.
A single caterpillar was found in the ladies lavatory at Martham in 2014, the first modern-day record, of unconfirmed provenance, in Norfolk. (D. Holman, C. Stean 09/04/14)
Adult seen near Martham Ferry in 2017 and photographed with phone before it flew off high over the reeds. (Will Soar, 24/06/17)
New for VC28 in 2019 when three were recorded to light trap on the same night at two sites! (Weeting and Ingoldisthorpe, 29/06/19)
In July 2023 a large influx was reported at Cley-next-the-Sea, described as "clouds of Scarlet Tigers", with at least 10 seen egg laying. Several caterpillars where also recorded the following Spring.
[MBGBI volume 9]Recorded in 27 (36%) of 74 10k Squares.
First Recorded in 1873.
Last Recorded in 2025.
Additional Stats |