Vetch Looper Moth
Common NameVetch Looper Moth
Scientific NamePhytometra viridaria
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyBoletobiinae
Wingspan (mm)21
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorstan, brown
HabitatGrasslands, heathland, open woodlands, gardens, rough ground
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host PlantsVicia sativa, Vicia sepium, Trifolium, Medicago sativa
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'looper' caterpillars, typically green with pale stripes, feeding on various legumes. They pupate in a cocoon, often near the ground or on host plants.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, pale brown/tan coloration, and the characteristic faint, wavy transverse lines on the forewings. It lacks prominent markings or strong contrasts.
Description
A small, delicate moth with pale yellowish-brown to reddish-brown forewings, often with a subtle greenish tint when fresh. The wings display two faint, wavy darker lines and a small dark discal spot.
