Geometridae

70.306 Small Grass Emerald Chlorissa viridata (Linnaeus, 1758)

Notable A

Similar species: Southern Grass Emerald Chlorissa cloraria has a slightly darker and more speckled leading edge to the forewing. It is often difficult to separate these two species, so it may be better to check the genitalia.

Forewing: 11 to 13mm

Habitats: Damp heathland and bogs.

Habits: The moth is easily disturbed in the day. It flies from dusk and comes sparingly to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Heather, Cross-leaved Heath, birches, Creeping Willow and gorse. In captivity it will accept most sallow species. It pupates spun to the foodplant or in the leaf litter.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Crowberry and Bog Myrtle.