Single-dotted Wave
Common NameSingle-dotted Wave
Scientific NameIdaea dimidiata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorscream, grey, brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsdandelion, knotgrass, bedstraw, privet
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are slender and brownish, overwintering before pupating in the spring. Adults are typically nocturnal.
Identification TipsLook for the single, prominent dark discal spot on the forewing, which gives the moth its common name. The overall pale, mottled appearance and wavy cross-lines are also characteristic.
Description
A small, pale moth with a creamy-white to light greyish-brown ground color, often mottled with darker grey or brown scales. It features a distinctive dark spot on the forewing and a wavy postmedian line.
