Taken at Aston, Oxon., on April 9th 2026. (© David Hastings)
(Canon R6+RF100, f/7.1, 1/200th, ISO2000, 100mm)

Description

Family: Geometridae (ABH : 70.141)

Wing span: 16 - 20mm

This moth is quite variable in size, as well as in appearance. The two black-edged cross-lines on the forewing are usually conspicuous.

It is found throughout the British Isles.

A wide range of habitats are used, from urban parks and gardens, to hedgerows, roadside verges, heathland, moorland, and woodland.

It overwinters as a pupa in plant debris. Adults are mainly seen from March to October in two or three generations, but have been recorded in every month of the year.

Larvae feed on the flowers of many plants, including Holly, Ivy, Gorse, Broom, heathers, Rowan, buddleias and roses.

It sometimes flies in hot sunshine, but its main flight period is just before dusk.

Earliest UK sighting: 9th January ; Latest UK sighting: 8th September

Sightings