Small Yellow Wave
Common NameSmall Yellow Wave
Scientific NameHydrelia flammeolaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorsyellow, orange-brown
HabitatDamp woodlands, fens, marshes, riverbanks, and areas with alder and birch.
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe, extending into parts of Asia.
Host Plantsalder, birch, willow, hazel
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe Small Yellow Wave undergoes complete metamorphosis. Eggs are laid on host plants, larvae (caterpillars) feed on leaves, then pupate before emerging as adult moths.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its small size, bright yellow ground color, and the unique wavy orange-brown markings across both forewings and hindwings. A small dark discal spot is often visible on the forewing.
Description
A small moth with bright yellow wings intricately patterned with wavy, orange-brown bands and a few small dark spots, giving it a distinctive mottled appearance.
