Zygaena ephialtes (Linnaeus, 1767) Species
Last modified: Nov. 9, 2025, 3:26 p.m.
In Belgium, it is only known as a very rare vagrant in the extreme south. During a southern influx in 2025, this species was observed in OV and WV.
Details
- Classification
- Family: Zygaenidae > Subfamily: Zygaeninae > Genus: Zygaena > Subgenus: Zygaena > Species: Zygaena ephialtes
- Vernacular names
- Variabele sint-jansvlinder (NL), La Zygène de la Coronille variée (FR)
- First mention in Belgium
- Janssen A. 1969. Nieuwe vlindersoorten voor België. — Schakel 7: 53. On page 53.
- Status
-
Native
Distribution
Imago
Wingspan c. 35 mm.
Museum specimens
Specimens in nature
Egg
The eggs are pale yellow. They are laid in a single layer and in many batches.
No pictures yet!
Cocoon/pupa
Bionomics
The larvae live freely on the leaves of the food plant. The adults are active during the day.
No pictures yet!
Flight periods
Adults fly from early June to early August.
Observed on
- Host plant (species):
- Coronilla varia
The caterpillars live almost exclusively on Coronilla varia, but also on Hippocrepis and Securigera.
No pictures yet!
Habitat
It prefers xeric habitats.
No pictures yet!
