White-barred Heath Moth
Common NameWhite-barred Heath Moth
Scientific NameEmaturga atomaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, grey, dark brown
HabitatHeathland, moorland, open woodlands, grasslands, clearings
Geographic RangeEurope, extending into parts of Asia (e.g., Siberia, Mongolia)
Host Plantsheather, gorse, broom, bilberry
Flight PeriodMay to July, sometimes a partial second brood in August/September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are 'looper' caterpillars, typically green or brown, feeding on heathland plants. They pupate in the soil, and adults emerge in spring/early summer.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled brown and white wings with distinct white cross-bands, especially the prominent one on the forewing. Males are often darker and more heavily marked than females. Rests with wings held flat.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a cryptic pattern of white, grey, and dark brown bands and mottling, often with a prominent white cross-band on the forewings.
