Magpie Moth (Abraxas grossulariata) | Species | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 Taken at Aston, Oxon., on August 11th 2025. (© David Hastings) (Canon R6+RF100, f/11, 1/320th, ISO20000, 100mm) DescriptionFamily: Geometridae (ABH : 70.205) Wing span: 36 - 50mm The large size of this moth separates it from all other black and white geometrids. The extent of the black and yellow markings can vary from almost black to almost white. It is found throughout the British Isles with the exception of the highest terrain. It is most abundant on northern heather moorland. It is also found in gardens, allotments, hedgerows and woodland. It overwinters as a small larva on the food plant. There is one generation from late June to August. Larval food plants include Blackthorn, Hawthorn, Hazel, Privet, Blackcurrant, Redcurrant, Gooseberry, Spindle, Bramble and Heather. It is sometimes found at rest flat on Bramble and other low foliage. It comes to light in small numbers. Earliest UK sighting: 10th August ; Latest UK sighting: 23rd August Sightings
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