Common Emerald

Hemithea aestivaria

Common Emerald (Hemithea aestivaria)

A beautiful green forewing ground colour (best appreciated in fresh specimens) with darker green and white cross-lines which follow through on the underwings. Chequered fringes and distinctive wing shape makes this moth unmistakable.  Wingspan 24 to 27mm.

Flies June to July after dusk, and is attracted to light. Found in woodland, parkland, hedgerows and gardens. Common and widespread in southern England and Wales.

The caterpillars feed on a variety of trees and shrubs, including Hawthorn, Blackthorn, oaks and willows.


June 2011, rear garden, Staffordshire. Camera Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ38. © Pete Hillman 2011.

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