Vestal Moth
Common NameVestal Moth
Scientific NameRhodometra sacraria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorswhite
HabitatOpen grasslands, heathland, gardens, dry habitats
Geographic RangeNative to southern Europe, Africa, and Asia; a widespread migrant to central and northern Europe, and occasionally North America.
Host Plantsknotgrass (Polygonum aviculare), dock (Rumex spp.), other low-growing herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodContinuous broods in warmer climates; migrants appear in temperate regions from late spring to autumn.
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown and feed on various low-growing herbaceous plants. Pupation occurs in a cocoon near the ground, and the species can have multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsWhile the pictured form is entirely white, the most common form of the Vestal Moth is characterized by a distinctive diagonal reddish-brown or pinkish stripe across the forewing. Look for its slender body and relatively small size.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with delicate, pure white wings and a slender body. The wings have a slightly fuzzy texture, especially along the margins.
