Geometridae

70.197 Grey Carpet Lithostege griseata ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

RDB

Similar species: Distinctive. A pale grey moth without any noticeable cross-bands or up to three faint bands. A single broad outer band is probably the commonest form.

Forewing: 14 to 16mm

Habitats: Disturbed breckland fields, arable field margins, disturbed parts of breckland heaths and freshly planted conifer plantations, roadside verges. Probably only immigrants or internal migrants outside of the Brecks.

Habits: The moth is sometimes disturbed in the day. It flies around the foodplant from dusk and comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on the seedpods of Flixweed. A plant that inhabits areas of disturbed ground. It pupates in a cocoon in sandy soil, sometimes overwintering twice.