Taken at Aston, Oxon., on May 2nd 2022. (© David Hastings)
(1/640th sec at f11)

Description

Family: Geometridae (ABH : 70.174)

Wing span: 20 - 24mm

The delicate, narrow, mauvish-grey forewing with dark brown blocks along the leading edge, fine, sinuous cross-lines and prominent elongated central spot are diagnostic and constant features of this species.

It is found mainly south-east of a line between the Wash and the Severn, but is scarce or absent in some areas.

It favours hedgerows along open, ancient lanes. Woodland edges may also be used.

There is one generation, late April to May. The flight period is only about two weeks. It over-winters as a pupa.

Larvae mainly feed on hawthorn, but they will also accept crab-apple and cultivated apple leaves.

It only comes rarely to light, and thus is seldom seen.

Nationally scarce.

Earliest UK sighting: 9th April ; Latest UK sighting: 1st May

Sightings