Red Twin-spot Carpet
Common NameRed Twin-spot Carpet
Scientific NameXanthorhoe spadicearia
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, cream, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, scrubland, heathland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsbedstraws (Galium spp.), chickweeds (Stellaria spp.), knotgrass (Polygonum aviculare)
Flight PeriodApril to June, July to September (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown with darker markings, feeding on various low-growing plants. The species overwinters in the pupal stage.
Identification TipsDistinguished from the similar Dark-barred Twin-spot Carpet (*Xanthorhoe ferrugata*) by its more reddish central band, which is generally broader and less sharply defined. The twin spots within the central band are often more prominent.
Description
A small moth with forewings characterized by a broad, reddish-brown central band, bordered by wavy pale cream lines, often containing two darker spots. The rest of the wings are patterned with shades of brown and cream.
