Lydia Wave
Common NameLydia Wave
Scientific NameScopula lydia
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorspale brown, grayish-brown
HabitatDry grasslands, sandy areas, heathlands, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSouthern and Central Europe, extending into parts of Asia
Host Plantsvarious herbaceous plants, thyme, heather, mugwort
Flight PeriodLate May to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous, feeding on low-growing herbaceous plants. They typically overwinter as larvae or pupae, with pupation occurring in a loose cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsLook for the specific pattern of faint, wavy transverse lines on pale sandy-brown wings. Definitive identification often requires examination of genitalia due to similarity with other Scopula species.
Description
A small, slender moth with pale sandy-brown or grayish-brown wings, marked by several faint, wavy, darker transverse lines, providing excellent camouflage against dry vegetation or wood.
