False Mocha
Common NameFalse Mocha
Scientific NameCyclophora porata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)27.5
Primary Colorslight brown, reddish-brown
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, heathland, gardens, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, Near East
Host Plantsbirch, oak, willow, hazel, hawthorn
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green or brown, resembling twigs, and feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They pupate on the host plant, often attached to a leaf or twig, with typically two generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, overall pale reddish-brown or sandy coloration, finely speckled wings, and the characteristic small, often ringed, discal spots on all four wings. The hindwing margin is often slightly scalloped.
Description
A small, pale reddish-brown moth with finely speckled wings, featuring faint wavy crosslines and small, often ringed, discal spots on both forewings and hindwings. Its cryptic coloration helps it blend with bark or dead leaves.
