The herald (moth) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The herald |
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Scoliopteryx
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S. libatrix
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| Scoliopteryx libatrix (Linnaeus, 1758)
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The herald (Scoliopteryx libatrix) is a type of moth. It belongs to a group of moths called the Erebidae family. A famous scientist named Carl Linnaeus first described this moth in 1758. You can find the herald moth in many parts of the world. It lives across Europe, Asia, and North America.
Contents
What the Herald Moth Looks Like
The herald moth has a wingspan of about 44 millimeters. This is roughly the length of two standard paper clips. Its wings are wide and have a special shape. The front wings have a bend in the middle of their outer edge. They also curve inward near the pointed tip.
The forewings are mostly grey. They often have a pinkish color towards the back. You might also see some orange-red or yellow patches. There are usually a few white spots and two small black dots on these wings. The hindwings are darker, especially near the edges.
Life Cycle and Habits
The herald moth flies for a long time each year. You can see it from June all the way to November. It usually has one or two groups of babies (broods) during this time.
When winter comes, the herald moth finds a safe, dark, and cool place to sleep. It might hide in cellars, barns, or even caves. This is called hibernation. It stays there until spring. Then, from March to June, it wakes up and flies again.
You can often find these moths in woodlands, parks, and gardens. When the herald moth rests, its wings look like a dry, shriveled leaf. This helps it blend in and hide from birds or other animals.
Caterpillars and Pupae
Herald moth caterpillars are bright green. This color is common for many caterpillars. You can tell them apart by the thin yellow lines on their bodies. These lines run between their body parts.
When a caterpillar is fully grown, it gets ready to change. It will pupate between two leaves. It spins a white cocoon made of silk to protect itself during this change.
What Herald Moths Eat
Herald moths eat different things depending on their life stage.
Larval Food Plants
As caterpillars, they munch on leaves from certain trees:
Adult Food Sources
When they become adult moths, they drink nectar from flowers or eat sweet fruits:
- Ivy blossom
- Ripe blackberries
