Geometridae

70.202 Early Tooth-striped Trichopteryx carpinata (Borkhausen, 1794)

Common

Similar species: Mottled Grey Colostygia multistrigaria has dotted veins and a larger hindwing. As with close relatives the male Early Tooth-striped has a lobe attached at the trailing edge of its hindwing.

Forewing: 13 to 18mm

Habitats: Deciduous woodland, marshes, fens and heathland scrub.

Habits: The moth can be found resting on tree trunks, posts and telephone poles during the day. It flies from dusk when it nectars at sallow catkins and comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Silver Birch, Downy Birch, sallows, Alder and Honeysuckle. It pupates in the soil.

On the European mainland it has been recorded on Goat Willow, Aspen and Hornbeam.