White Ermine

Spilosoma lubricipeda

Description

Wingspan 40mm. The fore-wing is normally white, but may sometimes be buff or even light brown. There are normally a good number of black spots, but these can be joined together in rows or even streaks.

Habitat

Woodland, grassland and hedgerows. The larvae feed on a range of herbaceous plants including nettle and dock.

Status and distribution

Common and widely distributed throughout Britain. Common in Britain and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

May to July.