Speckled Yellow
Image: Ben Sale from Stevenage, UK (CC BY 2.0)
Common NameSpeckled Yellow
Scientific NameChiasmia macularia
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsyellow, orange, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, clearings, meadows, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host PlantsMelampyrum, Plantago, Veronica
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are typically green with white stripes and feed on various herbaceous plants, primarily Cow-wheat (Melampyrum spp.). It overwinters as a pupa in a cocoon on the ground.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its distinctive bright yellow or orange wings covered in numerous irregular black spots. It is one of the few Geometrid moths that are active during the day.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with bright yellow or orange wings heavily speckled with irregular black spots. It is a diurnal species, often seen flying in sunshine.
