Dark-banded Carpet Moth
Common NameDark-banded Carpet Moth
Scientific NamePhilereme transversata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, grey
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, scrubland, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, including the British Isles, and parts of Asia
Host PlantsRhamnus cathartica (Buckthorn), Frangula alnus (Alder Buckthorn)
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUnivoltine, with larvae feeding on buckthorn species. Pupation occurs in the soil, and the species overwinters as an egg.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive broad, dark central band on the forewings, contrasting with lighter brown and greyish-brown markings. The overall coloration is muted brown and grey.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, rounded forewings displaying prominent dark brown bands alternating with lighter brown and greyish areas. The hindwings are paler and plainer.
