Taken at Aston, Oxon., on August 1st 2022. (© David Hastings)
(1/400th sec at f11)

Description

Family: Geometridae (ABH : 70.061)

Wing span: 26 - 28mm

Although rather variable, this moth is usually easy to recognize. The dark central crossband has only one rather blunt outer projection. The basal area of the hindwing is well-marked, and the white bands running across the forewing and hindwing have a distinct grey line running through them.

Subspecies alternata is found throughout the British Isles. Ssp obscurata is found on the Outer Hebrides.

A wide variety of habitats are used, including hedgerows, woodland, calcareous grassland, acid heathland and moorland, fens, marshes and gardens.

It over-winters as a pupa. There is one extended emergence from late April to early October.

Larvae feed on Cleavers, Hedge Bedstraw, Lady's Bedstraw and other bedstraws.

It is frequently disturbed from low vegetation by day. It visits flowers from dusk and comes to light.

Earliest UK sighting: 22nd April ; Latest UK sighting: 12th September

Sightings