Small Engrailed
Common NameSmall Engrailed
Scientific NameEctropis crepuscularia
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, hedgerows, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia, introduced to North America
Host Plantsoak, birch, willow, hawthorn, blackthorn, spruce, pine, larch
Flight PeriodMarch to May and July to September (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesTypically bivoltine, with two generations per year. Larvae are 'looper' caterpillars that feed on a wide variety of deciduous and coniferous trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs in the soil or leaf litter, with the pupa being the overwintering stage.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled greyish-white wings with distinct dark speckles and wavy transverse lines. The scalloped outer margins of the wings are a key feature. Can be confused with other *Ectropis* species, requiring close examination of wing patterns and markings.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled greyish-white wings covered in dark speckles and wavy transverse lines, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark or dead leaves. The wing margins are often scalloped.
