Variable Girdle Moth
Common NameVariable Girdle Moth
Scientific NameEntephria caesiata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)33
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white
HabitatMoorland, heathland, mountainous areas, open woodlands
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, North America (Canada, northern US)
Host Plantsheather, bilberry, willow, birch
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically green or brown, camouflaged to blend with host plants. Overwinters as a pupa or larva.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive broad, wavy dark bands on a pale background, especially the prominent central band on the forewings. The overall grey and black cryptic pattern is key.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, greyish-white wings heavily marked with irregular dark grey to black bands and wavy lines, providing excellent camouflage.
