Geometridae

70.218 Latticed Heath Chiasmia clathrata (Linnaeus, 1758)

Common

Chiasmia clathrata hugginsi (Baynes, 1759) Widespread in Ireland

Similar species: Common Heath Ematurga atomaria is superficially similar but it lacks the dark veins that would give it the latticed effect. It rests with its wings flat rather than raised and males have broadly feathered antennae.

Forewing: 11 to 15mm

Habitats: Calcareous grassland, Lucerne fields, acid heathland, moorland, open woodland, marshes and fens, coastal wasteground, sand-dunes and gardens.

Habits: The moth flies in sunny weather and is easily disturbed in the day. It comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on clovers, trefoils and Lucerne. It pupates in the soil.