Ruined Chocolate
Common NameRuined Chocolate
Scientific NameIdaea aversata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Primary Colorsdark brown, purple
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, grasslands, heathland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsdandelion, dock, knotgrass, bedstraw
Flight PeriodMay to September (often bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slender, brownish 'loopers' that feed on various low-growing herbaceous plants. They typically overwinter as larvae and pupate in a loose cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsKey features include the relatively uniform dark brown coloration with a purplish sheen on the outer wings, and the typical triangular resting posture. The lack of strong, contrasting patterns helps distinguish it from many other geometrid moths.
Description
A small moth with broad, triangular wings that are predominantly dark brown with a noticeable purplish iridescent sheen, especially towards the outer margins. The body is concolorous with the wings, and the antennae are simple.
