Plagodis dolabraria
A most distinctive moth with a ‘scorched’ appearance with its dark markings and crumpled wings. The female is seldom seen, but the male rests with its abdomen curled up. Wingspan 34 to 38mm.
The caterpillar feeds mainly on oaks and birches, but also other deciduous trees.
The adults fly May to June, males attracted to light, females to sugar. Found in woodland, parks and gardens. Common and widespread in England and Wales, less so in Ireland and Scotland.
June 2007, local field, Staffordshire. © Pete Hillman 2007.
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