Spruce Carpet
Common NameSpruce Carpet
Scientific NameThera britannica
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)31.5
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, cream, dark brown
HabitatConiferous woodlands, forests, gardens, parks with spruce trees
Geographic RangeEurope, including the British Isles, parts of Asia
Host Plantsspruce (Picea spp.), fir (Abies spp.), other conifers
Flight PeriodMay to June, and August to September (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on the needles of spruce and other conifer trees. The species is typically bivoltine, producing two generations per year, and overwinters as a pupa or egg.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive dark central band on the forewing, often with a paler wavy subterminal line. The overall mottled brown and grey pattern helps distinguish it from similar *Thera* species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptic brown and grey-brown forewings, featuring distinct dark central bands and wavy pale lines that provide excellent camouflage against tree bark.
