Geometridae

70.103 Water Carpet Lampropteryx suffumata ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Common

Similar species: Phoenix Eulithis prunata is superficially similar, but is on average larger (17 to 19mm) and flies later in the year (with a small overlap). Devon Carpet Lampropteryx otregiata is on average smaller (12 to 14mm) and has a less ragged outer edge to the cross-band between the leading edge and the projection.

Forewing: 14 to 17mm

Habitats: Damp woodland, scrub, hedgerows, embankments, mountain moorland, marshes, fens and some more natural gardens.

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

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