Pennithera ulicata
Common NamePennithera ulicata
Scientific NamePennithera ulicata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)22.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatHeathlands, scrublands, open woodlands, and coastal areas where gorse and broom are abundant.
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, extending eastwards.
Host PlantsUlex europaeus (gorse), Genista species (broom)
Flight PeriodMay to June, and August to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms' that feed on gorse and broom. They typically pupate in the soil or among leaf litter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its greyish-brown cryptic forewing pattern, the distinct wavy dark cross-lines, and the prominent reddish-brown central fascia (band) on the forewings.
Description
A small to medium-sized geometrid moth with forewings exhibiting a cryptic pattern of grey and brown mottling, defined by wavy dark lines and a prominent reddish-brown central band.
