Geometridae

70.027 Cream Wave Scopula floslactata floslactata (Haworth, 1809)

Local England, Wales, Isle of Man, Channel Islands, Ireland.

Scopula floslactata scotica Cockayne, 1951

Local W, C and SW Scotland

Similar species: Lesser Cream Wave Scopula immutata is on average smaller (12 to 13mm), has a less arched leading edge and has a more prominent dot in the hind wing and often in the forewing as well. Smoky Wave Scopula ternata has heavier speckling and no central dots in any of the wings. It can be distinguished from the Scottish form of Cream Wave which also has heavy speckling by the smoother cross-lines.

Forewing: 13 to 16mm

Habitats: Deciduous woodland, scrub grassland, hedgerows and occasionally gardens.

Habits: The moth can be disturbed during the day and comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Bush Vetch, Woodruff and other bedstraws. In captivity it accepts docks, Dandelion and Knotgrass.

On the European mainland it has been recorded feeding on Lady's-bedstraw, Bilberry, Beech and Alder.