Small Waved Wave
Common NameSmall Waved Wave
Scientific NameIdaea attenuaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorspale brown, ochre, dark brown
HabitatDry grasslands, heathlands, sandy areas, coastal dunes, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsdandelion, knotgrass, plantain, various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMay to September (often two broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous, feeding on withered leaves of various low-growing plants and overwintering as larvae. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon on the ground.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, pale brown to ochreous coloration, the distinct black discal spot on both fore and hindwings, and the faint, wavy transverse lines. It can be distinguished from similar *Idaea* species by these combined characteristics.
Description
A small, slender moth with pale brown to ochreous wings, often with a reddish tint, characterized by a distinct black discal spot on each wing and faint, wavy darker transverse lines.
