White-banded Carpet Moth
Common NameWhite-banded Carpet Moth
Scientific NameMesoleuca albicillata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, white
HabitatWoodlands, forests, hedgerows, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia
Host PlantsRubus (bramble, raspberry), Betula (birch), Salix (willow), Alnus (alder)
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are typically green or brown, camouflaged on their host plants. They pupate in a cocoon on the ground or among leaf litter, often overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsThe most distinctive feature is the broad, clean white band across the black forewings. The hindwings are mostly white with a dark terminal band.
Description
A striking moth with black forewings featuring a prominent, broad white band that extends from the costa to the tornus. The hindwings are typically white with a dark border.
