Taken at Alvescot, Oxon., on August 17th 2025. (© David Hastings)
(Canon R6+RF100, f/14, 1/250th, ISO10000, 100mm)

Description

Family: Geometridae (ABH : 70.239)

Wing span: 34 - 46mm

This moth rests with its wings half-open and half-raised. It differs from the Lunar Thorn by having a dark central spot towards the outer edge of the hindwing upperside.

It can be found throughout England and Wales, but is local in Scotland. It is absent from Ireland.

Habitats are woodland and scrub.

There are two generations, April to June, and July to August, and occasionally there is a partial third generation in October.

Larvae feed on Hazel, birches, Alder, hawthorns, oaks and many other broadleaved trees.

Earliest UK sighting: 17th August

Sightings