Swallow-tailed Moth
Common NameSwallow-tailed Moth
Scientific NameOurapteryx sambucaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)60
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorscream, white, yellow-brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, parks, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantselder, hawthorn, blackthorn, honeysuckle, ivy, birch
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are twig-like in appearance, camouflaging them effectively. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in spring, emerging as adults in early summer.
Identification TipsLook for its large size, overall pale cream/white coloration, the two prominent yellow-brown cross-lines, and the distinctive swallow-tails on the hindwings, which often feature a small reddish-brown spot.
Description
This large, pale cream to white moth is characterized by two distinct yellowish-brown lines crossing its forewings and hindwings, and prominent, swallow-like tails on its hindwings, often with a small reddish-brown spot.
