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The 'Common Footman' (''Eilema lurideola'') is a moth of the family Arctiidae. It is distributed throughout the Palearctic region and the Near East.
This species has a wingspan of 31-38 mm. The forewings are grey with a yellowish-buff streak along the costa. The hindwings are a uniform cream colour. Like other footmen, it rests with its wings wrapped around its body (The common name 'footman' comes from a supposed resemblance to the uniform of such a servant). This moth flies at night in July and August and is attracted to light and nectar-rich flowers.
The larva is grey and hairy, with black lines down the back and an orange line down each side. It usually feeds on various lichens including ''Parmelia'', although it has also been recorded feeding on buckthorn and oak. The species overwinters as a larva.
# ''The flight season refers to the British Isles. This may vary in other parts of the range.''

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References

References

★ 'Chinery, Michael' ''Collins Guide to the Insects of Britain and Western Europe'' 1986 (Reprinted 1991)

★ 'Skinner, Bernard' ''Colour Identification Guide to Moths of the British Isles'' 1984