The Jasper
Common NameThe Jasper
Scientific NameValeria jaspidea
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, brown, cream
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, hedgerows, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, extending eastwards
Host Plantshawthorn, blackthorn, sallow, oak
Flight PeriodOctober to November, and February to April (after overwintering)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesOverwinters as an adult moth. Eggs are laid in spring, larvae feed during late spring/early summer, pupation occurs in late summer, and new adults emerge in autumn.
Identification TipsKey features include the unique combination of mossy green and reddish-brown patches on the forewings, particularly the prominent green streak along the costa and the reniform stigma.
Description
A medium-sized moth with forewings intricately patterned with mottled brown, olive-green, and cream markings, giving it a mossy or lichen-like appearance.
