The Tiny Moth that Packs a Deadly Punch

Have you ever heard of a moth that packs a deadly punch? It sounds dramatic, I know - but the six-spot burnet moth is not your average moth.

As we head into summer, now is the time to spot these incredible insects - unusually, they prefer daylight to darkness. They can be found in wildflower meadows and areas where bird’s foot trefoil grows. They are instantly recognisable by their black metallic wings, dotted with six red spots - totally unmistakeable. The colouration isn’t for show - they are nature’s way of warning other predators “Back off. I’m toxic”.

These beautiful moths really pack a punch! A deadly punch - they produce hydrochloric cyanide as a defence mechanism. A chemical so potent it keeps most predators at bay - enough to kill a small bird if consumed. And if that wasn’t enough, it smells faintly of almonds when disturbed.

They are very sensitive to environmental change such as loss of food sources, habitat and pesticides. They love nothing more than flitting amongst wildflowers like knapweed and scabious, and like areas that have been left uncultivated or manicured with plenty of tall grasses. Habitats like this are becoming increasingly rare, which is why we need to do more to protect these chemical warfare specialists.

The green, spotted hairy caterpillar will spend time eating and fattening up in preparation for metamorphosis. They create a cocoon, paperlike in structure, on tall grasses and plants - then it’s a matter of waiting until the weather warms enough. Then when the weather is just right, they emerge and begin their month-long quest to find a mate before dying and making way for the next generation.

The burnet moth uses its defence mechanism as a way to woo a partner. The male moth exchanges cyanide with the female during mating, who then ensures this gets passed onto the young. It is kind of like a deadly wedding present that gets passed down from generation to generation.

The burnet moth is such a fascinating insect and it isn’t too hard to find. They are beautiful to look at but when you find out what is going on beneath the surface - the warning colours, the chemical warfare, and their quiet resilience - you can’t help but admire them for their ingenuity in the game of survival.

Next time you’re walking in a grassy meadow with wildflowers - keep an eye out for the flash of metallic black and six red spots. You might just be in the presence of a toxic legend!