Geometridae

70.272 Square Spot Paradarisa consonaria (Hübner, [1799])

Local

Similar species: Engrailed Ectropis crepuscularia has a small dark smudge between the outward projections on the outer central cross-line, rather than a dark rectangle on the outer central cross-line that reaches the outer cross-line.

Forewing: 18 to 20mm

Habitats: Deciduous woodland, heavily wooded parkland, dense scrub and gardens in woodland areas.

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

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Silver Birch, Downy Birch, Beech, oaks, Hornbeam, pines, Yew and other deciduous trees and shrubs. It has been shown that it can survive and mature on algae and lichens. It pupates in the soil.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Alder and Rowan.