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"
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 22 (30%) of 74 10k Squares.
First Recorded in 1878.
Last Recorded in 2024. |