Dira Moth
Common NameDira Moth
Scientific NameAgriopis dira
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)32.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeWestern Europe
Host Plantsoak, birch, hawthorn, blackthorn, sallow
Flight PeriodOctober to December
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in autumn, overwinter, and hatch in spring. Larvae feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs, pupating in the soil, with adults emerging in autumn. Females are flightless.
Identification TipsMales are identified by their distinctive mottled grey and white cryptic pattern with dark wavy lines, and their late autumn/early winter flight period. Females are flightless and rarely observed.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, rounded forewings displaying a mottled pattern of grey and white, accented by prominent dark grey or black wavy cross-lines and bands.
