SMALL RANUNCULUS

ADULT: Wingspan 32-34mm. The forewings are a mix of light and dark greys with yellow markings on the submarginal line and around the reniform area. The furry thorax also contains orange-yellow tints.  LARVA: Pale reddish brown with three rows of black dots along the back and three dark lines. A fine black line runs through the spiracles and the head is pale brown and shiny. A form can be green to yellowish. CHRYSALIS: Overwinters as a pupa underground. BEHAVIOUR: Attracted to light. The larva feed on wild and cultivated lettuce. HABITAT: Gardens and allotments. FLIGHT PERIOD: June to July. STATUS: Resident and local in the south but expanding its range northward.