Triodia sylvina, Orange Swift

Common Name: Orange Swift

Triodia sylvina, more commonly known as the Orange Swift, is a species of moth belonging to the family Hepialidae. It was previously placed in the genus Hepialus. This species has a wingspan of 32 - 48 mm. The male has rich orange forewings with two white bars forming a "V" shape. The hindwings are dark brown. The female is similar but generally larger and less brightly coloured.

It flies at night from June to September and is attracted to light. The larva feeds on the roots of various plants including bracken, dandelion, dock, hop and Viper's Bugloss. The Orange Swift is short-lived as its shortened proboscis prevents it from being able to feed. It over-winters twice in its larval form and pupates below ground. In the UK and Ireland this resident moth is found throughout, but is more common in lowland habitats.

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