Geometridae

70.030 Dingy Mocha Cyclophora pendularia (Clerck, 1759)

RDB3

Similar species: The dark form of Birch Mocha Cyclophora albipunctata which may also have a reddish band across the hindwings as well as the forewings, is usually less heavily marked and has a pale band to the outside of the red area.

Forewing: 12 to 14mm

Habitats: Boggy heathland and open clearings in damp conifer plantations.

Habits: The moth flies one to two metres above the ground near its foodplants at dusk. It occasionally comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Eared Willow, Grey Willow and other small leaved sallow species. It pupates attached to a leaf by a silk girdle.