Geometridae: Larentiinae

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

KR08448

Monks Wood
Monks Wood
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Monks Wood
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
 pre-2000
 2000-2009
 2010-2019
 2020-onwards
Monks Wood, Nov 2003
Monks Wood, Nov 2003
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies


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
Earith
 Photo © David Griffiths
Winter Moth Operophtera brumata


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