Brindled Beauty Moth
Common NameBrindled Beauty Moth
Scientific NameLycia hirtaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsyellowish-white, black, brown
HabitatWoodlands, parks, gardens, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, elm, lime, willow, fruit trees
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are twig-like, varying in color from green to brown, and feed on a wide range of deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in the soil over winter.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive mottled, brindled wing pattern and stout, hairy body. Males have prominent, feathery antennae. It is one of the earliest large moths to emerge in spring.
Description
A stout-bodied moth with broad, rounded wings featuring a mottled pattern of dark wavy lines and speckles on a pale yellowish-white or greyish ground color, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
