Sober Tabby
Common NameSober Tabby
Scientific NameEctropis crepuscularia
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, hedgerows, gardens, parks
Geographic RangeWidespread across the Palearctic (Europe, North Africa, Asia) and Nearctic (North America) regions
Host Plantsbirch, oak, willow, alder, hawthorn, fruit trees
Flight PeriodApril to May, and July to August (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms', exhibiting a characteristic looping gait. They are polyphagous, feeding on the foliage of various deciduous and coniferous trees and shrubs. Pupation typically occurs in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive bark-like camouflage pattern, the broad, somewhat triangular wings, and the wavy transverse lines, particularly the prominent postmedial line. Its resting posture with wings spread flat is also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, triangular wings, cryptically patterned in mottled shades of brown and grey. Its forewings feature several wavy, dark transverse lines and a slightly scalloped outer margin, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
