Wood Carpet
Common NameWood Carpet
Scientific NameEpirrhoe alternata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)27
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, brown, grey, black
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, open country
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host PlantsGalium verum, Galium mollugo, Galium aparine
Flight PeriodMay to August (often two broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various species of bedstraw (Galium). The species overwinters as a pupa.
Identification TipsLook for the broad white median band on the forewings, which contrasts sharply with the darker basal and terminal areas. The hindwings are similar but paler.
Description
A medium-sized moth with distinct alternating bands of white and dark brown/grey across its forewings, featuring a prominent white median band.
