Dark Umber
Common NameDark Umber
Scientific NameEpirrhoe alternata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, cream, black
HabitatWoodlands, grasslands, hedgerows, gardens, open country
Geographic RangeHolarctic (North America, Europe, Asia)
Host Plantsbedstraws (Galium spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are loopers that feed on various species of bedstraw (Galium). The species typically overwinters as a pupa in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic wavy transverse lines and the often-prominent dark median band. The overall cryptic brown and grey coloration helps it blend with bark or leaf litter; distinguishing from closely related carpet moths may require close examination.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a highly variable, cryptic pattern of wavy dark brown, grey, and cream bands across its wings, often featuring a prominent dark central band and a small discal spot on the forewing.
