Geometridae

70.101 Mottled Grey Colostygia multistrigaria (Haworth, 1809)

Common

Similar species: Garden Carpet Xanthorhoe fluctuata f.thules has a darker base to the wing and a more prominent spot in the forewing. Striped Twin-spot Carpet Coenotephria salicata is usually more grey and has a more prominent spot in the forewing. Early Tooth-striped Trichopteryx carpinata lacks the dotted veins in the forewing and has a smaller hindwing. As with close relatives the male Early Tooth-striped has a lobe attached at the trailing edge of its hindwing.

Forewing: 13 to 17mm

Habitats: Moorland, heathland, woodland rides and clearings and downland.

Habits: The moth can be found emerging from low vegetation just after dusk. It nectars at sallow blossom and comes sparingly to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Lady's Bedstraw, Heath Bedstraw, Cleavers and other bedstraws. It pupates in the leaf litter.