70.251 Oak Beauty Copyright Martin Evans
 70.251 Oak Beauty Copyright Martin Evans
 70.251 Oak Beauty dark form Copyright Martin Evans
 Distribution map Copyright Martin Evans
 Life stages table Copyright Martin Evans
 Life stages table Copyright Martin Evans  70.251 Oak Beauty Copyright Martin Evans

Geometridae

70.251 Oak Beauty Biston strataria (Hufnagel, 1767)

Common

Similar species: Although variable, this moth is not likely to be mistaken for other British or Irish species.

Forewing: 17 to 27mm

Habitats: Deciduous woodland, scrub and gardens.

Habits: The male comes to light. The female is only rarely attracted.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Pedunculate oak, other oaks, elms, Hazel, Aspen, sallows, Alder and other deciduous trees and shrubs. It pupates in the soil.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on birches, limes, poplars and maples.