Sand-dusted Moth
Common NameSand-dusted Moth
Scientific NameIsturgia arenacearia
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsyellow, brown
HabitatDry, sandy areas, heathland, open woodland
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, North Africa, parts of Asia Minor
Host PlantsCalluna vulgaris, Erica, Genista, Cytisus
Flight PeriodApril to June (first generation), August to September (second generation)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown, resembling twigs, and feed on heather and broom species. They pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for its sandy-yellow to light brown coloration with two wavy dark transverse lines and a dark discal spot on the forewings. Males have distinctive pectinate (comb-like) antennae.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with sandy yellow to light brown wings, marked with two darker transverse lines and a central discal spot on the forewings. Its coloration provides good camouflage against dry vegetation.
