Strange Wave
Common NameStrange Wave
Scientific NameIdaea aversata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorslight brown, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, grasslands, heathland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsdandelion, knotgrass, dock, bedstraw, clover
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are slender, twig-like 'loopers' or 'inchworms' that typically overwinter. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsKey features include the light brown ground color and the two prominent, wavy dark lines across the wings. Some individuals may have a darker central band, but the overall pattern is consistent.
Description
A small, light brown moth characterized by distinct dark brown wavy lines traversing both its forewings and hindwings, often with a slightly scalloped wing margin.
