Mottled Umber
Common NameMottled Umber
Scientific NameErannis golda
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, light brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, elm, hawthorn, apple, cherry
Flight PeriodOctober to December
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThis species is univoltine, producing one generation per year. Eggs are laid on host plants in autumn/winter, larvae hatch in spring, feed on deciduous tree leaves, and pupate in the soil during summer. Adults emerge in autumn, with females being flightless.
Identification TipsMales are identified by their mottled brown forewings with two dark transverse lines and pale hindwings; females are distinctive due to their flightless, stubby-winged appearance. The late flight period (autumn/early winter) is a key characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown forewings featuring two distinct darker transverse lines, and paler hindwings. The body is also brown and somewhat hairy.
