Geometridae

70.073 White-banded Carpet Spargania luctuata ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Notable A

Similar species: Cloaked Carpet Euphyia biangulata has greenish inner and outer areas to the forewing. Sharp-angled Carpet Euphyia unangulata has a single triangular tooth on the outer area of the cross-band with a smooth edge each side of it. Both species have a paler outer edge to all four wings.

Forewing: 14 to 15mm

Habitats: Large open rides and clearings in woodland and plantations

Habits: The moth is easily disturbed and flies in the afternoon and evenings on sunny days. It comes to light, sometimes in large numbers.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Rosebay Willowherb. In captivity it will accept Broad-leaved Willowherb and Square-stalked Willowherb. It pupates in the leaf litter.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Broad-leaved Willowherb and Great Willowherb.