Satin Wave
Common NameSatin Wave
Scientific NameIdaea subsericeata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Primary Colorswhite, pale grey
HabitatDry grasslands, heathland, coastal areas, open woodland
Geographic RangeWestern Europe, including the British Isles
Host Plantsheather, common bird's-foot trefoil, various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slender and brownish, feeding on low-growing plants. They overwinter as larvae before pupating in spring.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, silky white appearance, and faint, wavy grey cross-lines. A small, dark discal spot is usually present on each wing, and the fringes are white.
Description
A small, delicate moth with silky white or pale grey wings, often marked with faint, wavy grey cross-lines and a small discal spot.
