Long-winged Pearl
Common NameLong-winged Pearl
Scientific NamePleuroptya ruralis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)33
Primary Colorspale yellow, light brown, grey
HabitatGardens, hedgerows, woodlands, waste ground, areas with nettles
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia, North America
Host PlantsUrtica dioica, Humulus lupulus, Mentha, Cirsium
Flight PeriodMay to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green and feed gregariously on the underside of host plant leaves, often spinning a silken web. They pupate in a cocoon among leaf litter or soil, with two to three broods per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive wavy, mottled pattern on pale yellowish-tan wings, and its relatively long, somewhat pointed forewings. Often found in areas rich in Common Nettle.
Description
A medium-sized moth with pale yellowish-tan wings marked by intricate, wavy patterns of light brown and grey, giving it a mottled appearance. Its relatively long wings are held flat when at rest, blending well with dead leaves.
