Yellow Panther (Pseudopanthera macularia)

The Yellow Panther, also known by the name little tiger, is one of our most recognizable day-flying moths. Although technically it belongs among the nocturnal moths, it is active exclusively during the day, when in sunny weather it is often observed along forest edges, in clearings, and on flowering meadows. Its wings are bright yellow in color and covered with numerous irregular brown spots, after which it received its characteristic name.
The wingspan of this small butterfly measures between 23 and 28 millimeters. It is most frequently encountered from May to July, when it lightly flies low above the ground or rests on the leaves of undergrowth. Its caterpillars are trophically bound to various Lamiaceae, primarily wild sage, betony, and dead-nettle.
In Slovenia, the species is widely distributed and relatively common, but hikers sometimes overlook it due to its small size and fast flight. Its presence in nature is a good indicator of preserved and flower-rich forest edges that provide it with suitable shelter and food.