Geometridae

70.038 Vestal Rhodometra sacraria (Linnaeus, 1767)

Immigrant

Similar species: Straw Belle Aspitates gilvaria is larger (15 to 18mm) and speckled.

Forewing: 12 to 14mm

Habitats: Warm open grassland.

Habits: The moth is easily disturbed in the day. It comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Knotgrass. In captivity it accepts docks. It does not appear to be able to survive British winters.

On the European mainland the larva has also been recorded feeding on mayweeds, Dandelion, sow-thistles, knotweeds and Sumac.