Geometridae

70.268 Pale Oak Beauty Hypomecis punctinalis (Scopoli, 1763)

Common

Similar species: Great Oak Beauty Hypomecis roboraria is on average larger (21 to 32mm), has a solid central spot on the hindwing, has dark bars on the underside of the wing tip and broader feathered antennae. Engrailed Ectropis crepuscularia

Forewing: 22 to 26mm

Habitats: Deciduous woodland, mature scrub, less often in parkland and gardens in woodland areas.

Habits: The moth is occasionally found on tree trunks or branches during the day. It comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Pedunculate Oak, Downy Birch, Silver Birch, sallows, Crab Apple, Hazel, Hawthorn, Midland Hawthorn, Sweet Chestnut, Sycamore and European Larch. It pupates in the soil.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Alder, limes, Wild Cherry, Beech, Goat Willow, poplars, Blackthorn and Raspberry.