Geometridae: Sterrhinae

1715 (ABH70.018) Plain Wave Idaea straminata, (Borkhausen, 1794)

KR08187

Earith
Earith
 Photo © David Griffiths
Earith
 Photo © David Griffiths
 pre-2000
 2000-2009
 2010-2019
 2020-onwards
Earith
Earith
 Photo © David Griffiths


General Information

This species closely resembles the f. remutata form of Riband Wave, but is slightly smaller. Its smooth, rather silky, muddy-brown wings and fainter cross-lines help distinguish it. The third cross-line is not kinked at the leading edge as it usually is on the Riband Wave.

 

Pupates in plant debris.

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

Forewing length: 13-15mm.
Foodplant(s): herbaceous plants
Flying: One generation, late June-early August
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Local

Habitat

Open woodland, scrubby heathland, hedgerows and gardens.

Regional Information

Recorded in 10 (3.7%) of the 270 2km squares of Huntingdonshire.

Last recorded in August 2022

Recorded date range (Adult): 17 June to 08 September

Similar Species
f. remutata, Great Staughton
f. remutata, Great Staughton
 Photo © Peter Bissell
Riband Wave Idaea aversata

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