Mottled Umber
Common NameMottled Umber
Scientific NameErannis defoliaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorscream, brown, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, elm, hawthorn, apple, cherry, hazel, lime
Flight PeriodOctober to December
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUnivoltine, eggs laid in late autumn/winter, larvae hatch in spring and are 'looper' caterpillars, pupation in soil, adults emerge in autumn.
Identification TipsMales are identified by their mottled brown and cream forewings with wavy bands and a central spot, and their late flight period. Females are distinctive due to their flightless, stubby wings and stout body.
Description
A medium-sized moth with highly variable, mottled forewings typically cream or pale brown with wavy dark brown bands and a central dark spot. Males have fully developed wings, while females are flightless.
