Geometridae

70.019 Lewes Wave Scopula immorata (Linnaeus, 1758)

Presumed Extinct / Former Resident

Similar species: Common Heath Ematurga atomaria is superficially similar, but the males have feathered antennae.

Forewing: 11 to 14mm

Habitats: In Britain it lived on heathland surrounded by conifer plantations. On mainland Europe its habitat is warm dry areas of grassland.

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

Foodplant: The early stages have not been recorded in Britain, but it possibly fed on Heather. In captivity it accepts Knotgrass, plantain, Dandelion and docks.

In mainland Europe it has been recorded on Wild Thyme, Wild Marjoram, Yarrow, Mugwort and Greater Plantain. It pupates in a loose cocoon in the leaf litter.