Geometridae: Ennominae

07686 Peppered Moth Biston betularia, (Linnaeus, 1758)

BF1931 (ABH70.252)

Christophstal, April 2014
Christophstal, April 2014
 Photo © Peter Bissell
Christophstal, April 2014
 Photo © Peter Bissell
 2012-2013
 2014
 2015
 2016-onwards
Christophstal, September 2013
Christophstal, September 2013
 Photo © Peter Bissell
Christophstal, September 2013
Christophstal, September 2013
 Photo © Peter Bissell


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 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: Not endangered

Habitat

Woodland, scrub, hedgerows and gardens.

Regional Information

Recorded in 1 (0.4%) of the 270 2km squares of Baden-Württemberg.

Last recorded in June 2018

Recorded date range (Flying/Adult): 24 April to 22 June

Recorded date range (Larva/Leafmine): 12 August to 12 August

Similar Species
Christophstal, April 2013
Christophstal, April 2013
 Photo © Peter Bissell
Oak Beauty Biston strataria


Larva/Leafmine:
Larva Type:
Smooth
Colours:
Brown, green, grey, orange, red
No. of Proleg Pairs:
2