Geometridae

70.304 Sussex Emerald Thalera fimbrialis (Scopoli, 1763)

RDB Protected species

Similar species: Common Emerald Hemithea aestivaria lacks the scallop on the outer edge of the hindwing, the line across the hindwing has a deeper undulation and the wings have cream and brown chequered fringes.

Forewing: 15 to 16mm

Habitats: The more sandy areas of coastal shingle.

Habits: The moth is most active at dusk and dawn. It comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva usually feeds on Wild Carrot, but occasionally on Common Ragwort or Hoary Ragwort. The foodplants are often sited in the shelter of taller herbs and grasses. It pupates in the leaf litter in captivity.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Yarrow, Field Wormwood, Heather, Bilberry, Goldenrod, Bramble and thyme.