© Photo by Vaughn Matthews Magpie Moth Abraxas grossulariata The Magpie Moth is a medium-sized moth which is quite butterfly like in appearance. © Photo by Ben Keywood The Magpie Moth is on the wing during summer when it can be frequently found in gardens, as well as woodland, scrub and heather moorland. The caterpillars feed on a variety of shrubs, including Hazel, Hawthorn, Privet and currants. The Magpie Moth overwinters as a caterpillar and pupates in late spring. How to Identify The Magpie Moth is mainly white, with black and yellow spots on the wings, and a yellow and black body. The similar Small Magpie Moth lacks the yellow spots on the wings and is smaller. Where to Find Widespread in England, Wales and the lowlands of Scotland. How people can help Moths such as the Magpie Moth are common in gardens – why not set up a moth trap at night and see who comes to visit? To attract moths and butterflies into your garden, plant nectar-rich borders and shrubs for them to feed on. To find out more about encouraging wildlife into your garden, visit our Wild About Gardens website: a joint initiative with the RHS, there’s plenty of facts and tips to get you started. Did you know? The bold colours of the Magpie Moth warn predators that it is distasteful. Although birds are wary of this species, spiders will try to eat any caught in their web. After trying it, however, they’ll quickly discard it. Key FactsWingspan: 3.6-5.0cm Donate Donate to help support Magpie Moths and other wildlife. Donate Similar Species Cinnabar Invertebrates Common Blue Invertebrates Common Woodlouse Invertebrates Four-Spotted Chaser Invertebrates Harvestman Spider Invertebrates Honey Bee Invertebrates Mayfly Invertebrates Meadow Brown Butterfly Invertebrates Orange-Tip Butterfly Invertebrates Painted Lady Butterfly Invertebrates Peacock Butterfly Invertebrates Speckled Wood Butterfly Invertebrates White-tailed Bumblebee Invertebrates Wood Ant Invertebrates