If there are pine trees nearby, you have a chance of seeing this beautiful, orange-red moth which flies from late February until the beginning of summer. Thanks to its colours and patterns, the moth blends in perfectly as it rests among the buds of the pine trees.

Contrary to the general decline of UK moths, the Pine Beauty has done well over recent decades, increasing in numbers as a result of pine trees being planted for timber production and as ornamental plants in gardens.

Adults feed in spring at sallow blossom and are attracted to light.

Flight Season

There is one generation that flies from late February through to early May.

Size and Family

  • Family – Hadenines
  • Small Sized
  • Wingspan Range – 30-33mm

Conservation Status

  • UK BAP: Not listed
  • Common Resident

Caterpillar Food Plants

The caterpillars feed on Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), as well as other Pinaceae.

Habitat

Can be found in coniferous forests and plantations.

Distribution

  • Countries – England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland
  • Common throughout the British Isles in suitable habitat
Pine Beauty - Iain Leach

Pine Beauty

Pine Beauty - Pete Withers

Pine Beauty

Pine Beauty - Patrick Clement

Pine Beauty

Pine Beauty - Ilia Ustyantsev

Pine Beauty

Pine Beauty - Garry Barlow

Pine Beauty

Pine Beauty - Dave Shenton

Pine Beauty

Pine Beauty - Pete Withers

Pine Beauty

Pine Beauty - Samantha Batty

Pine Beauty

Pine Beauty - Rachel Scopes

Pine Beauty

Pine Beauty - Koen Thonissen

Pine Beauty

Pine Beauty - Koen Thonissen

Pine Beauty

Pine Beauty - Koen Thonissen

Pine Beauty