Goldwing
Common NameGoldwing
Scientific NamePterapherapteryx sexalata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)27.5
Primary Colorsgrey, white, brown, yellow, orange
HabitatWoodlands, fens, marshes, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North Africa
Host Plantswillow, sallow
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green with white stripes, feeding on willow and sallow leaves. They pupate in a cocoon on the ground or within leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the combination of the intricately patterned greyish-white forewings and the bright, contrasting yellowish-orange hindwings. The forewings often display a prominent dark central band.
Description
A small moth characterized by its mottled grey and white forewings with wavy dark bands, and distinctive yellowish-orange hindwings that are often visible at rest.
