Shoulder-striped Wave
Common NameShoulder-striped Wave
Scientific NameSestra humeraria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, off-white
HabitatWoodlands, forests, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, willow, hazel
Flight PeriodApril to June, July to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'loopers' that feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs in the soil or leaf litter, with the species typically overwintering as a pupa or egg.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its pale brown forewings with two indistinct darker cross-lines and very pale hindwings. The overall drab coloration and specific wing markings help differentiate it from similar geometer moths.
Description
A medium-sized geometer moth with pale brown forewings featuring two diffuse darker transverse lines and very pale, almost unmarked hindwings. The body is hairy and light brown.
