Ligusterpijlstaart Moth Identified in Local Garden: A Common Yet Striking Species
A recent inquiry about a submitted photograph has identified a Ligusterpijlstaart (Liguster pile tail) moth, a species commonly found in the Netherlands. The moth’s caterpillars are known to feed on a variety of plants, including privet, ash, lilac, Guelder rose, snowberry, common elm, and Japanese spirea.
The Ligusterpijlstaart is a large moth, with its forewings reaching a wingspan of up to twelve centimeters. These nocturnal moths are attracted to light. During the day,they typically rest on trees,walls,and fences. This species can be found across Europe and extends eastward to Japan.
Distinguishing features of the Ligusterpijlstaart include a blackish upper breast and a prominent dark brown stripe along the inner edge of the forewing, which continues to the wingtip. The moth’s pink abdomen is marked with black bands, and its light pink hindwing also displays these bands, creating a striking contrast. variations in color intensity are