Little Thorn
Common NameLittle Thorn
Scientific NameCepphis advenaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)27.5
Primary Colorsorange-brown, yellowish-brown, white
HabitatWoodlands, heathland, scrub, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEurope, extending eastwards into Siberia and Japan
Host Plantsbilberry, birch, willow, sallow, hawthorn
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are 'looper' caterpillars, feeding on various shrubs and trees. They pupate in the soil or leaf litter, overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsKey features include the orange-brown ground color, the prominent white apical patch on the forewing, and the slightly scalloped wing margins. The overall shape and size are also characteristic.
Description
A small, orange-brown moth with a distinctive white patch near the apex of the forewing and a somewhat jagged outer margin. The wings are mottled with darker brown bands and speckles.
