Small Phoenix
Common NameSmall Phoenix
Scientific NameEcliptopera silaceata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark grey, black, white, yellowish-brown
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, fens, marshes
Geographic RangePalearctic region (Europe, North Africa, parts of Asia)
Host PlantsGalium spp. (bedstraws), Epilobium spp. (willowherbs)
Flight PeriodMay to July, August to September (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on bedstraws and willowherbs, pupating in a cocoon on the ground or among leaf litter. It typically overwinters as a pupa.
Identification TipsDistinguished by the intricate pattern of dark grey, black, white, and yellowish-brown bands on the forewings, particularly the prominent white subterminal line and the dark central band often broken by lighter lines.
Description
A medium-sized moth with dark grey and black forewings featuring prominent white and yellowish-brown wavy cross-lines and bands, giving it a complex, patterned appearance.
