Rival Wave
Common NameRival Wave
Scientific NameScopula rubraria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)21
Primary Colorspale brown, sandy yellow, dark brown
HabitatGrasslands, heathlands, open woodlands, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeAustralia, New Zealand, introduced to Hawaii and parts of North America (e.g., California)
Host Plantsclover, plantain, various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, typically spring to autumn (year-round in warmer climates)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slender 'inchworms' that feed on low-growing herbaceous plants. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon near the ground, with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for its characteristic pale, speckled wings with subtle wavy lines and prominent black discal spots; it typically rests with its wings spread flat.
Description
A small moth with pale sandy-brown to yellowish-ochre wings, heavily speckled with dark scales, featuring faint wavy reddish-brown lines and a distinct black discal spot on each wing.
