Common Heath
Common NameCommon Heath
Scientific NameEmaturga atomaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)32
Primary Colorsyellow, brown, black
HabitatHeathland, moorland, open woodland, grassland, fens
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia
Host Plantsheather, clover, bird's-foot trefoil, bilberry, birch, willow
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'loopers' that feed on a variety of low-growing plants. The species typically overwinters as a pupa in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled brown and yellow pattern on the wings and its diurnal flight in heathland environments. Males have prominent feathery antennae.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad wings, displaying a highly variable, mottled pattern of dark brown or blackish markings on a yellowish-ochre or sandy ground color.
