Orange Moth
Image: Ben Sale from Stevenage, UK (CC BY 2.0)
Common NameOrange Moth
Scientific NameAngerona prunaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsorange, brown, black
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, scrubland, hedgerows, gardens
Geographic RangeTemperate Europe, eastward to Siberia
Host PlantsBlackthorn, Hawthorn, Willow, Birch, Honeysuckle, Privet
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesOverwinters as a small larva. Larvae are twig-like, camouflaged, and feed on various deciduous shrubs. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon among leaves or on the ground.
Identification TipsThe combination of bright orange wings, dark speckling, and the distinct dark band on the hindwings makes it relatively easy to identify. Males often have more intense coloration and markings than females.
Description
A striking medium-sized moth characterized by its bright orange wings, which are variably speckled with dark brown or black, and feature a prominent, often wavy, dark band across the hindwings.
