Geometridae: Larentiinae

70.054 (BF1727) Silver-ground Carpet Xanthorhoe montanata, ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

KR08255

 2010
 2011
 2012
 2013

General Information

This species is quite variable. The white or brownish-white wings, the irregular brown cross-band on the forewing and the quite plain hindwing are all diagnostic. The central band varies in width and is sometimes split into two blotches (f. degenerata) or one small blotch close to the leading edge (f. costimaculata). The band can also vary between greyish brown to dark-brown, usually with some white.

 

Pupates in loose earth.

Overwinters as Overwinters as a larva.
Both sexes readily come to light, sometimes in numbers.

Forewing length: 14-17mm.
Foodplant(s): cleavers (Galium aparine), Hedge Bedstraw (Galium mollugo), Primrose (Primula vulgaris), herbaceous plants
Flying: One generation, mid May-late July
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Common

Habitat

Damp places with tall, herbaceous vegetation, hedgerows, scrub, woodland rides, fens, chalk download and heathland.

Regional Information

There are no records in the system yet in MyPlace.

Similar Species
Garden Carpet Xanthorhoe fluctuata


Larva/Leafmine:
Larva Type:
Smooth
Colours:
Grey, brown, black, yellow
No. of Proleg Pairs:
2