Cross-line Wave Moth
Common NameCross-line Wave Moth
Scientific NameCabera exanthemata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgreen, yellow, brown
HabitatWoodlands, heathland, fens, gardens, and other damp areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEurope, across temperate Asia to Japan
Host Plantswillow, sallow, birch, alder, aspen
Flight PeriodMay to August (often two broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plant leaves. The slender, green or brownish caterpillars mimic twigs and feed on the leaves. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon among leaf litter or in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive pale yellowish-green color, the two faint, wavy cross-lines on the forewings, and the slightly scalloped wing margins. It is very similar to the Common Wave (*Cabera pusaria*) but typically has a more yellowish-green hue and less distinct lines.
Description
This small moth has pale yellowish-green wings with two faint, wavy, brownish cross-lines on each forewing and a single line on the hindwings. The outer margins of the wings are slightly scalloped and often edged with a fine brown line.
