October Thorn
Common NameOctober Thorn
Scientific NameEnnomos erosaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsorange, brown
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, elm, lime, hazel, sallow
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are twig-mimics, typically green or brown, feeding on various deciduous trees. Pupation occurs in a cocoon among leaves or bark.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall orange-brown coloration, the two distinct wavy transverse lines across the wings, and the slightly scalloped outer margins of both forewings and hindwings. Its flight period in late summer and autumn is also a key identifier.
Description
A medium-sized moth with an orange-brown body and wings, featuring two darker, wavy transverse lines and a small discal spot on the forewings. The wing margins are slightly scalloped.
