Peppered Moth (Biston betularia, (Linnaeus, 1758))

General Information
This species can be quite variable, but is distinctive. Several named forms exist including a melanic form f. carbonaria and an intermediate form f. insularia.

Pupates in loose soil.
Overwinters as Overwinters as a pupa.
Both sexes readily come to light, sometimes in numbers.

Forewing length: 22-28mm.
Foodplant(s): Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), hawthorns (Crataegus spp.), birches (Betula spp.), lime (Tilia spp.), sallows (Salix spp.), poplars (Populus spp.), oaks (Quercus spp.), Sweet Chestnut (Castanea sativa), Beech (Fagus sylvatica), Rosaceae (Rosaceae spp.), Bramble (Rubus fruticosus), Broom (Cytisus scoparius), broadleaved trees, broadleaved shrubs
Flying: One generation, May-late August
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Common

Habitat

Woodland, scrub, hedgerows and gardens.

Regional Information

There are no records in the system yet in MyPlace.

Similar Species

Oak Beauty Biston strataria

70.252 (BF1931) Peppered Moth Biston betularia, (Linnaeus, 1758)

KR07686