Geometridae

70.053 Flame Carpet Xanthorhoe designata ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Common

Similar species: Red Carpet Xanthorhoe decoloraria has a streak in the apex of the forewing and a single rounded projection on the outer edge of the wing.

Forewing: 11 to 14mm

Habitats: Mountain moorland and grassland, lowland grassland, downland, hedgerows and gardens.

Habits: The moth is occasionally disturbed from bushes and lower vegetation in the day. It flies from dusk and comes to light.

Foodplant: The early stages have not been recorded in the wild in Britain, but in captivity it will take Wallflower, Cabbage and other Cruciferae.

On the European mainland it has been recorded feeding on Garlic Mustard and Cuckoo Flower.