Saturated Carpet
Common NameSaturated Carpet
Scientific NameXanthorhoe saturata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)31
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, cream
HabitatWoodlands, forests, hedgerows, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia (Palearctic)
Host PlantsGalium, Rubus
Flight PeriodMay to July, August to September (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms' typical of the Geometridae family, feeding on host plants before pupating. It typically has two generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic dark, broad median band on the forewings, which is often suffused with reddish-brown, and its wavy, pale borders. The overall cryptic coloration helps it blend with tree bark or foliage.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown, grey, and cream forewings featuring a distinctive darker central band bordered by wavy pale lines. The hindwings are typically paler.
