Marbled Wave Moth
Common NameMarbled Wave Moth
Scientific NameCabera exanthemata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)27.5
Primary Colorswhite, brown, yellowish-brown
HabitatDamp woodlands, fens, marshes, riverbanks, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, across the Palearctic to Japan
Host Plantswillow, birch, alder, poplar
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are green or brown 'looper' caterpillars that feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in a cocoon among leaf litter or in the soil, with adults emerging in late spring and summer.
Identification TipsLook for the unique marbled pattern of white, dark brown, and ochre wavy lines, particularly the three distinct wavy cross-lines on the forewings. Its cryptic coloration and habit of resting with wings held flat against tree bark are also key features.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with a distinctive marbled pattern of white, dark brown, and yellowish-brown wavy lines across its wings, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
