Small Brindled Beauty
Common NameSmall Brindled Beauty
Scientific NameApocheima hispidaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope
Host Plantsoak, birch, hawthorn, blackthorn, elm
Flight PeriodFebruary to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesAdults emerge in late winter to early spring. Females are flightless and lay eggs on host plants. Larvae feed during spring and early summer, then pupate in the soil over summer and autumn.
Identification TipsMales are distinguished by their early flight period (late winter/early spring), mottled grey-brown wings, and prominent feathery antennae. The flightless female is rarely observed.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a stout, furry body and cryptically patterned wings, mottled with shades of grey, brown, and black, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
