Dark-ribboned Wave Moth
Common NameDark-ribboned Wave Moth
Scientific NameIdaea aversata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)27.5
Primary Colorspale brown, dark brown, ochre
HabitatGardens, woodlands, hedgerows, grasslands, open country
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsdandelion, knotgrass, bedstraw, plantain, dock
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'looper' caterpillars that feed on low-growing plants and overwinter. Pupation occurs in a cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsKey features include the wavy cross-lines and the prominent dark central band on its pale ochreous wings, though a form without the central band (f. remutata) also exists.
Description
A small, slender moth with pale ochreous to brownish-yellow wings adorned with several wavy, dark brown cross-lines and a prominent dark central band.
