Essex Emerald
Common NameEssex Emerald
Scientific NameThetidia smaragdaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyGeometrinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Primary Colorsgreen, white
HabitatCoastal saltmarshes, fens, damp grasslands, dry grasslands
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host PlantsSea Wormwood, Mugwort
Flight PeriodLate June to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusendangered
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are cryptic, feeding on the flowers and seeds of *Artemisia* species, overwintering as larvae before pupating in spring.
Identification TipsKey features include its bright green color, the two prominent wavy white lines across all wings, and white wing fringes. It is often found in habitats with its *Artemisia* host plants.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by its vibrant emerald green wings, which are marked with two distinct, wavy white cross-lines on both forewings and hindwings, and have white fringes.
