Small Seraphim
Common NameSmall Seraphim
Scientific NamePterapherapteryx sexalata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatWoodlands, forests, fens, marshes, areas with willow and sallow
Geographic RangeEurope, across the Palearctic to Japan
Host Plantswillow, sallow
Flight PeriodMay to July (sometimes a second brood in August)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on willow and sallow. Pupation occurs in a cocoon among leaf litter or in the soil, overwintering as a pupa.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, the wavy dark and light cross-lines on the forewings, and often a noticeable dark central band. The specific pattern of the postmedian line can be helpful.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with greyish-brown forewings featuring intricate wavy darker brown and whitish cross-lines and bands, often with a prominent dark central band. The hindwings are paler.
