Six-spot Burnet Moth
Zygaena filipendulae
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Six-spot Burnet is one of the most striking insects on the Sefton Coast dunes — a day-flying moth with metallic green-black wings spotted with six brilliant red dots. They congregate on Ragwort, thistles and other flowers in groups. The red spots are a warning signal — Burnet Moths contain hydrogen cyanide and birds learn to leave them alone. The papery, boat-shaped cocoons attached to grass stems are a feature of the dune grassland in early summer before adults emerge.
At a Glance
| Order | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Zygaenidae |
| Habitat | Open dune grassland · Calcareous grassland · Rough grassland |
| Diet | Adults: Ragwort, thistle, knapweed nectar. Larvae: Bird's-foot Trefoil |
| UK population | Widespread and locally common in grassland throughout Britain |
| Sefton Coast | Abundant on dune grassland at Ainsdale and Formby in July; one of the most conspicuous dune insects |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Dune grassland where Bird's-foot Trefoil grows. Formby and Ainsdale. Often abundant.
Identification
Day-flying moth. Metallic blue-green forewings with six red spots. Red hindwings. Slow, fluttering flight. Papery, spindle-shaped cocoon on grass stems in June.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Ragwort patches in July are the place to look. Easy to photograph — they're sluggish and unconcerned about approach. Look for cocoons on grass stems in June before adults emerge.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species has a favourable conservation status in the UK and remains an important part of Sefton Coast biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Six-spot Burnet Moths contain cyanide?
Six-spot Burnet Moths synthesise hydrogen cyanide as a defence against predators. The HCN is stored throughout the body — including the eggs — making the moths genuinely toxic. The bright red spots on metallic green wings are aposematic warning colouration, teaching predators to avoid them. Some spiders have been observed cutting Burnets out of their webs rather than eating them.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.