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Four-spotted footman

Four-spotted footman

Lithosia quadra

A species of Lithosia

The wingspan is 3.5 - 6 cm. The males are smaller than the females. There is strong sexual dimorphism in the imago, the males have gray wings with a yellow wing joint and a blue-black stripe at the front of the outer rim of the forewing. The females have yellow wings with two blue-black dots.

Does the Four-spotted footman cause allergies?
Allergenic
General Info About Four-spotted footman
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Attributes of Four-spotted footman
Colors
Black
Yellow
Gray
Habitat
bush; tree; forest
Larva Food Source
Lichens on trees, algae on rocks, mosses on forest floors, foliage of host plants, woody plants
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
The Four-spotted footman has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Four-spotted footman feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Vestigial
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Species Status of Four-spotted footman
It is found in southern and central Europe then east across the Palearctic to the Amur River and Japan. It is also found in the south of Great Britain and Scandinavia.
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Distribution Area of Four-spotted footman
Iberian Peninsula, East Asia
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Life Cycle of Four-spotted footman
Egg Upon oviposition, the eggs of four-spotted footman are small and discrete. The eggs will eventually hatch into larvae. Color may vary depending on species.
Larva The larval or caterpillar stage of four-spotted footman involves significant growth. It sheds its skin several times, revealing larger size and sometimes different patterns or colors with each instar.
Pupal During pupation, four-spotted footman is encased in a cocoon or chrysalis. Within it, the four-spotted footman undergoes a radical transformation, restructuring its body in preparation for adulthood.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult four-spotted footman’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Four-spotted footman
3.5 - 6 cm
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Predators of Four-spotted footman Larvae
Birds, rodents, certain parasitic wasps, spiders
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Predators of Adult Four-spotted footman
Bats, birds, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Four-spotted footman
Despite appearing delicate, four-spotted footman can migrate over long distances, showcasing remarkable endurance for such a seemingly fragile creature.
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Scientific Classification of Four-spotted footman
Tips for Finding Four-spotted footman
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Youth Habitat of Four-spotted footman
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies
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Adult Habitat of Four-spotted footman
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies
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How Can You Attract Four-spotted footman
Adult four-spotted footman may be attracted to light traps, while caterpillars can often be found on their host plants.
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Habitat Preferences of Four-spotted footman Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of four-spotted footman are typically laid on the underside of leaves preferred by the adult for feeding. As larvae, four-spotted footman caterpillars can be found on various host plants, often on low-growing vegetation or shrubs where they feed on leaves. During the pupal stage, four-spotted footman might be located in concealed spots like under loose bark or within plant debris on the ground. Adult four-spotted footman, when not in flight, rest on tree trunks or rocks, camouflaging with their wing patterns. To find the different stages, one would search the foliage for eggs, examine host plants for caterpillars, look under bark or amongst leaf litter for pupae, and inspect tree trunks or rocky surfaces for adults.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Four-spotted footman
The suitable time for finding adult four-spotted footman is usually at dusk or at night when they are most active and attracted to light. For caterpillars, the best time is during the day when they are feeding on host plants.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Four-spotted footman
Calm, warm, and humid nights are ideal for adult four-spotted footman activity, while overcast and damp conditions can be favorable for locating caterpillars during the day.
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How and Where Can You Find Four-spotted footman at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of four-spotted footman are often laid on the underside of leaves of the host plant. Check for tiny clusters or rows of eggs on likely food sources.
Larva Four-spotted footman caterpillars can be found on or near their food plants. Search by examining the leaves and stems of the host plant for signs of feeding or for the caterpillars themselves.
Pupal Four-spotted footman pupae can be found in concealed locations near the host plants. Look for them under leaves, in crevices, or in other sheltered spots where the larvae have pupated.
Adult Adult four-spotted footman may be seen feeding on nectar from flowers, so visit flowering plants at twilight or during the night. You can also set up a light trap to attract them.
Are Four-spotted footman harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Four-spotted footman
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Allergenic
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Does the Four-spotted footman cause allergies?

The larvae stage of four-spotted footman may cause mild allergic reactions in a small subset of individuals upon contact. The allergen is typically the hair of the larvae, which can lead to common allergy symptoms such as itching or rash. While the overall risk of severe allergies is low, those affected should minimize contact with the larvae to reduce symptoms.

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Hurt Plant

Four-spotted footman harms its host plants, specifically types of lichens found on trees and rocks, through feeding. It chews on plant tissues, attacking leaves and leading to potentially severe defoliation. This action can stunt plant growth, reduce photosynthetic capacity, and, over time, can weaken the overall health of the host lichens.

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