Northern Winter Moth (Operophtera fagata, (Scharfenberg, 1805))

General Information
This species is less common and less widely distributed than the Winter Moth. It is most often found by torch light on heathland in November.

Pupates in loose soil.
Overwinters as Overwinters as an egg.
Both sexes come to light, males more often than females.

Forewing length: 14-18mm.
Foodplant(s): birches (Betula spp.), Alder (Alnus glutinosa), Beech (Fagus sylvatica), Apple (Malus domestica), plums (Prunus spp.), cherries (Prunus spp.)
Flying: One generation, October-December
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Common

Habitat

Woodland, heathland, scrub and orchards.

Regional Information

Recorded in 7 (2.6%) of the 270 2km squares of Huntingdonshire.

Last recorded in November 2008

Recorded date range (Adult): 09 October to 23 December

Similar Species

Earith

Winter Moth Operophtera brumata

1800 (ABH70.105) Northern Winter Moth Operophtera fagata, (Scharfenberg, 1805)

KR08448