Mountain Carpet
Common NameMountain Carpet
Scientific NameColostygia aptata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatAlpine meadows, rocky slopes, subalpine forests
Geographic RangeEuropean mountains (Alps, Pyrenees, Carpathians), extending into parts of Asia
Host PlantsAlchemilla, Galium
Flight PeriodJuly to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on host plants, typically overwintering as pupae or sometimes as larvae. Adults are nocturnal.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its distinct wavy transverse lines, particularly the strong dark central band and the contrasting pale subterminal line on a greyish background.
Description
A medium-sized moth with forewings patterned with alternating wavy bands of dark grey-brown and pale grey-white, providing excellent camouflage against rocks or bark.
