Black Geometrid
Common NameBlack Geometrid
Scientific NameEctropis crepuscularia
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsblack, dark grey, pale grey
HabitatWoodlands, forests, gardens, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia, North America
Host Plantsbirch, oak, willow, spruce
Flight PeriodMarch to May, July to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'looper' caterpillars, feeding on a wide variety of deciduous and coniferous trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs in the soil, where it overwinters.
Identification TipsCharacterized by its dark, mottled appearance with wavy transverse lines and scalloped wing edges. Darker forms can be confused with other geometrids, but the specific pattern of pale markings and the overall wing shape are key.
Description
A medium-sized moth with dark grey to black wings, heavily mottled with irregular pale grey wavy lines and patches, and distinctly scalloped wing margins. Its stout, hairy body is also dark.
