Peribatodes rhomboidaria – The Willow Beauty is a variable moth and may be confused with other ‘Beauty’ species. It has a wingspan of 30-38mm. An important feature in identification is the cross-line on the forewing beyond the middle which is strongly kinked near the leading edge. It is more or less straight in trailing half, and forms a dot on each vein. The adult flies mainly June to August, but in the south a second generation form August to October. Readily comes to light, sometimes in fair numbers. Found in woodland, hedgerows, parks and gardens. Common and widespread, and resident. The larvae feed on a range of broadleaved trees, shrubs and climbers, including privet, Honeysuckle and birches.
Attracted to moth trap, rear garden, July 2019. Nikon D7200 © Peter Hillman.
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