Cymbalophora pudica
Southern Bear ( Cymbalophora pudica )
The Southern Bear ( Cymbalophora pudica ), also called Southern Grasbär, is a butterfly (moth ) from the subfamily of the tiger moths ( Arctiinae ).
- 4.1 Notes and references
- 4.2 Literature
Features
Butterfly
The moths have a wingspan from 35 to 42 mm in males and 37-43 mm in females. Their forewings have a milky white to pinkish white base color, which is interrupted by a black spot drawing. In the fringe region of the spots are usually triangular. The intensity of the spot drawing can vary greatly. In the Postdiskalregion pink white rear wing, some round, black spots can be seen. The blackish hairy chest is characterized by a broad, yellowish neck brace and two yellow longitudinal white stripes on both sides of the center. Typical for the red color of the abdomen, which has some dark spots. The antennae of the males are ciliated, those of the females are thready.
Caterpillar
The caterpillars are gray brown in color, hairy and provided on each segment with dark brown warts. In adult animals, the coat is sharp and strong.
Similar Species
A certain similarity to the moths of Cymbalophora powelli. These are equipped with wing spans of 29 mm in females and 30 to 38 millimeters in males but smaller, and also show closer to each other arranged black spots on the forewings.
Geographical distribution and occurrence
The species is widespread in North Africa and the Mediterranean, including the Mediterranean islands and usually not uncommon. She prefers inhabited sunny, rocky areas and heathland and skimmed lawns.
Way of life
The main flight period of the butterfly ranges from August to November, where they hatch in the majority after the end of the greatest heat. The caterpillars feed on various grasses ( Poaceae ), where they feed at night. They hatch from late autumn and winter, and then mainly to pupate in May.