Grey Pine Carpet
Common NameGrey Pine Carpet
Scientific NameThera obeliscata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)31.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white, orange
HabitatConiferous woodlands, pine forests, heathland with conifers
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, Near East
Host PlantsPinus sylvestris, Picea abies
Flight PeriodMay to July, August to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with pale stripes and feed on conifer needles. Pupation occurs in a cocoon among needles or on the ground, with two generations typically occurring per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinct banded forewing pattern, especially the broad, often reddish-brown central band bordered by wavy white lines, and its strong association with pine and spruce trees.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a cryptic pattern of alternating greyish-white and brownish-orange bands across its forewings, providing excellent camouflage against conifer bark.
