Small Blood-vein
Common NameSmall Blood-vein
Scientific NameScopula imitaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorspale cream, reddish-brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, heathland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsknotgrass, dandelion, plantain, chickweed
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe species overwinters as a larva, which feeds on various low-growing herbaceous plants. Pupation occurs in a cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsKey features include the pale ground color, the distinctive wavy reddish-brown lines across both wings, and the reddish-brown wing fringes. Its small size and delicate appearance are also characteristic.
Description
A small, delicate moth with pale cream or ochre wings marked by several wavy reddish-brown transverse lines and a reddish-brown fringe along the wing margins. The wings are finely speckled.
