Deduced Graphic
Common NameDeduced Graphic
Scientific NameXanthorhoe ferrugata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white, orange
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, various open habitats
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host PlantsGalium spp., Stellaria spp., Polygonum aviculare
Flight PeriodMay to September (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on low-growing plants like bedstraws and chickweeds. Overwinters as a pupa. Typically has two or three generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the broad, irregular whitish median band on the forewings, often with a dark central spot, and the reddish-brown patches in the subterminal area. The species is somewhat variable.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with mottled grey-brown forewings featuring a prominent, irregular whitish median band that often contains a darker central mark, and reddish-brown or orange patches near the outer margin.
