Green Carpet
Common NameGreen Carpet
Scientific NameColostygia pectinataria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Primary Colorsgreen, black, white
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, damp areas, fens, marshes
Geographic RangeEurope, extending eastwards into parts of Asia
Host PlantsGalium aparine, Galium mollugo, Galium verum
Flight PeriodMay to September (often two broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are green or brownish with a pale stripe, feeding on various bedstraw species. They typically overwinter as pupae or sometimes as larvae, with adults emerging in spring and summer.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive bright green coloration combined with the intricate wavy black and white banding across the forewings. It is often found in damp, vegetated areas where its host plants grow.
Description
This moth has striking bright green forewings marked with wavy black and white bands, giving it a mossy or lichen-like appearance. The hindwings are paler greyish-white.
