Small Grass Emerald
Common NameSmall Grass Emerald
Scientific NameHemithea aestivaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyGeometrinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgreen, white
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel, willow
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green or brown, camouflaged as twigs, and overwinter as small larvae. Pupation occurs in a cocoon among leaves or on the ground.
Identification TipsLook for its bright green color, the two prominent white wavy lines on all wings, and its relatively small size compared to other emerald moths. The white fringes are also a key feature.
Description
This moth exhibits vibrant emerald green wings, each marked with two distinct white, wavy cross-lines and white fringes. Its body and antennae are also typically green.
