European Oak Beauty
Common NameEuropean Oak Beauty
Scientific NameBiston strataria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, black, brown, grey
HabitatWoodlands, parks, gardens, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, and parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, elm, lime, poplar
Flight PeriodFebruary to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green or brown, resembling twigs, and feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They pupate in the soil over the summer, with adults emerging in late winter or early spring.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its broad wings, striking black and white mottled pattern with a distinct dark central band and zigzag lines, and its early flight period. Males have strongly bipectinate (feathery) antennae.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, mottled wings featuring a complex pattern of white, black, and dark brown, often with prominent zigzag lines and a dark central band. Its cryptic coloration provides excellent camouflage against tree bark.
