Dusky Thorn
Common NameDusky Thorn
Scientific NameEnnomos fuscantaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsyellowish-brown, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, parks, gardens, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsash, elm, oak, birch, hawthorn, blackthorn
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesOverwinters as an egg. Larvae feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs in spring and early summer, pupating in a cocoon among leaves. One generation per year.
Identification TipsLook for the specific yellowish-brown coloration, the two distinct wavy dark cross-lines on the forewings, and the deeply scalloped outer margins of all wings. Males have prominent pectinate (comb-like) antennae.
Description
A medium-sized moth with yellowish-brown to ochre wings, marked by two wavy dark lines on the forewings and one on the hindwings, and distinctly scalloped wing margins.
