Sulphur Wave
Common NameSulphur Wave
Scientific NameCrocota tinctaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsyellow, orange
HabitatDry grasslands, heathlands, moorland, open woodlands
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host PlantsCalluna vulgaris, various grasses, Plantago
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are polyphagous, feeding on various low-growing plants and grasses, overwintering as larvae before pupating in the spring.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its bright, uniform yellow or orange coloration, relatively small size, and often diurnal flight, though it can be confused with other yellow geometrids. The faint spots, if present, are also a clue.
Description
This small to medium-sized moth has uniformly bright sulphur-yellow to orange wings, sometimes adorned with a few faint, darker spots on the forewings.
