Polymixis bacheri (Püngeler, 1902)

Host plants:
The larvae are polyphagous. I found many young caterpillars on leaf undersides of Rumex vesicarius (Fuerteventura) in February.

Habitat:
Polymixis bacheri inhabits semi-deserts, ravines, cliffs, coastal dunes and similar, sparsely vegetated habitats.

Life cycle:
Polymixis bacheri flies during the winter months from autumn to spring. The caterpillar lives in the more humid winter and spring. Young larvae ar found on the plant (lower sides of leaves etc.) also during daytime. Older ones hide on the ground or in sand or under stones and feed at night. The pupae aestivate from April or May to September/October in order to survive the drought.

Remarks:
Polymixis bacheri is widespread in coastal areas, on rocky slopes, in gravel and semi-deserts in the Canary Islands (eastern islands from Gran Canaria to Lanzarote and Fuerteventura). It also occurs in N-Africa.