Dingy Shell
Common NameDingy Shell
Scientific NameEupithecia subfuscata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)21
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorspale brown, yellowish-brown
HabitatWoodlands, heathland, gardens, hedgerows, and various open habitats.
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe, parts of Asia, and North America.
Host Plantsheather, willow, hawthorn, sallow, various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous, feeding on a variety of plants. They pupate in the soil and overwinter as pupae.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, mottled pale brown wings with indistinct markings, and its tendency to rest with wings held flat.
Description
A small moth with pale yellowish-brown, mottled wings, often appearing somewhat 'dingy' or camouflaged against bark or foliage.
