Lunar Thorn
Common NameLunar Thorn
Scientific NameSelenia lunularia
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, white
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantshawthorn, blackthorn, sallow, birch, oak
Flight PeriodMay to June, July to August (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are twig-mimics, camouflaging themselves among branches. They pupate in a cocoon among leaves or in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic scalloped hindwing margins and the broad, pale (often white) band that crosses the forewings, contrasting with the darker brown and orange ground color.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and orange wings, featuring a prominent white band across the forewings and distinctly scalloped hindwings.
