Northwestern Phoenix Moth
Common NameNorthwestern Phoenix Moth
Scientific NameEpirrhoe alternata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)27.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white
HabitatWoodlands, forests, heathlands, gardens, open grassy areas
Geographic RangeHolarctic (widespread across Europe, Asia, and North America)
Host Plantsbedstraw (Galium spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown with darker markings, feeding on bedstraws. They overwinter as pupae in the soil.
Identification TipsDistinguished by the prominent dark median band on the forewings, bordered by wavy white lines, and the overall cryptic brown and white pattern. Can be confused with other Epirrhoe species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, scalloped wings featuring a complex pattern of dark brown and greyish-white wavy bands and lines, providing excellent camouflage.
