Geometridae: Larentiinae

08255 Silver-ground Carpet Xanthorhoe montanata, ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

BF1727 (ABH70.054)

Borovets, Rila Mtns., 14th July 2014. Light trap.
Borovets, Rila Mtns., 14th July 2014. Light trap.
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Borovets, Rila Mtns., 14th July 2014. Light trap.
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
 2010-2016
 2017
 2018
 2019


General Information

This species is quite variable. The white or brownish-white wings, the irregular brown cross-band on the forewing and the quite plain hindwing are all diagnostic. The central band varies in width and is sometimes split into two blotches (f. degenerata) or one small blotch close to the leading edge (f. costimaculata). The band can also vary between greyish brown to dark-brown, usually with some white.

 

Pupates in loose earth.

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

Forewing length: 14-17mm.
Foodplant(s): cleavers (Galium aparine), Hedge Bedstraw (Galium mollugo), Primrose (Primula vulgaris), herbaceous plants
Flying: One generation, mid May-late July
UK Presence: Resident
National status:

Habitat

Damp places with tall, herbaceous vegetation, hedgerows, scrub, woodland rides, fens, chalk download and heathland.

Regional Information

Recorded in 3 (0.2%) of the 1900 10km squares of Bulgaria.

Last recorded in July 2013

Recorded date range (Adult): 08 July to 23 July

Similar Species
Dobarsko, S Rila Mtns. 07-07-2022. Light trap.
Dobarsko, S Rila Mtns. 07-07-2022. Light trap.
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Garden Carpet Xanthorhoe fluctuata


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