Geometridae

70.011 Single-dotted Wave Idaea dimidiata (Hufnagel, 1767)

Common

Similar species: Treble Brown Spot Idaea trigeminata has black patches at the leading edge of the forewing as well as the trailing edge.

Forewing: 9 to 11mm

Habitats: Woodland rides and clearings, scrub, hedgerows, fens, marshes and gardens.

Habits: The moth is easily disturbed in the day. It can be found nectaring on thistles and knapweeds at dusk and later comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on the (probably withered) leaves of Burnet Saxifrage, Cow Parsley or Hedge Bedstraw. In captivity it accepts the withered leaves of Knotgrass, dock and Dandelion. It pupates in a flimsy cocoon in the leaf litter.