Apopestes spectrum (Esper, 1787)

Host plants:
The larvae feed on broom species, especially Spartium junceum.

Habitat:
Apopestes spectrum inhabits the Mediterranean shrub associations with Spartium. I found many larvae in a grassland area on a rocky road side verge in Provence.

Life cycle:
The moths overwinter. Caterpillars are found from late April to June. The adults hatch from July, which then go into hibernation.

Remarks:
Apopestes spectrum is a Mediterranean species that penetrates locally to the southern edge of the Alps. It is also reported from the Swiss Valais (if still native?).