Geometridae: Larentiinae

1726 (ABH70.055) Large Twin-spot Carpet Xanthorhoe quadrifasiata, (Clerck, 1759)

KR08254

 Photo © Barry Dickerson
Large Twin-spot Carpet
 Photo © Barry Dickerson
 pre-2000
 2000-2009
 2010-2019
 2020-onwards
Monks Wood NNR, 16th July 2008
Monks Wood NNR, 16th July 2008
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Monks Wood
Monks Wood
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Monks Wood
Monks Wood
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Hemingford Grey, 13-07-2020. Light trap. Female.
Hemingford Grey, 13-07-2020. Light trap. Female.
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies


General Information

This species is larger than most other moths in the family. The clear, broad central cross-band is usually grey with darker lines running through it, with an elongated dark central dot. There is a melanic form f. thedenii.

 

Pupates in loose earth.

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

Forewing length: 14-16mm.
Foodplant(s): bedstraws (Galium spp.), Primrose (Primula vulgaris), violets (Viola spp.), herbaceous plants
Flying: One generation, mid June-early August
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Local

Habitat

Damp, usually ancient, broadleaved woodland, fenland carr and scrubby heathland.

Regional Information

Recorded in 99 (36.7%) of the 270 2km squares of Huntingdonshire.

Last recorded in July 2022

Recorded date range (Adult): 01 June to 08 September

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

Similar Species
11th July 2020.
11th July 2020.
 Photo © Malcolm Hillier
Balsam Carpet Xanthorhoe biriviata
 Photo © Barry Dickerson
Dark-barred Twin-spot Carpet Xanthorhoe ferrugata

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