Geometridae

70.005 Silky Wave Idaea dilutaria (Hübner, [1799])

RDB

Similar species: Dwarf Cream Wave Idaea fuscovenosa has prominent central black dots in both the fore and hind wings. It has dark dashes along the edge of the wing at the base of the fringe which are absent or much paler in Silky Wave. The leading edge has many dark dots and dashes, especially at the base and the end of the cross-lines.

Forewing: 8 to 10mm

Habitats: Clearings on warm, scrubby calcareous slopes.

Habits: The moth is easily disturbed in the day. It flies from dusk and later comes to light.

Foodplant: The withered leaves of Common Rock-rose. In captivity it accepts the withered leaves of Dandelion, Knotgrass and Bistort. It pupates in the leaf litter.