Garden Carpet
Common NameGarden Carpet
Scientific NameXanthorhoe fluctuata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black, grey
HabitatGardens, parks, woodland edges, hedgerows, waste ground
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia (Palearctic)
Host Plantscabbage, nasturtium, garlic mustard, dandelion, dock
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are typically green or brown, feeding on leaves. Pupation occurs in a cocoon in the soil or leaf litter. Multiple generations occur per year.
Identification TipsLook for the pale ground colour with prominent dark, wavy cross-bands and a distinctive dark rectangular blotch on the leading edge (costa) of the forewing. The hindwings are paler with faint markings.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with pale white or greyish wings marked by distinctive dark, wavy cross-bands and a prominent dark blotch on the forewing costa.
