Willowherb Yellow Underwing
Common NameWillowherb Yellow Underwing
Scientific NameEcliptopera capitata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, yellow
HabitatDamp woodlands, riverbanks, fens, gardens, and other areas where host plants grow.
Geographic RangeEurope and parts of Asia, including the UK, Central Europe, and Russia.
Host PlantsEpilobium montanum, Epilobium hirsutum, Epilobium parviflorum
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the leaves of willowherb plants. The larvae feed on the foliage, typically from June to September, before pupating in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the mottled grey-brown forewings with their distinctive pale discal spot and wavy lines. The bright yellow hindwings, visible when the moth is disturbed or in flight, are a definitive characteristic.
Description
This moth has cryptically patterned forewings, mottled with shades of grey, brown, and black, featuring intricate wavy lines and a prominent pale discal spot. Its hindwings, though mostly concealed at rest, are a striking bright yellow with a dark band.
