Common Carpet
by
Shop
Shop
Epirrhoe alternata
Common & widespread in Britain.
The Larva is generally brown or green but is very variable in its markings.
The Larvae feed on Bedstraw.
The species overwinters as a pupa.
The forewings are patterned grey at the base of the wings, after a narrow light fascia comes a wide, brown patterned band, which is followed by an almost pure, light band.
Beyond it, on the outer edge of the wings, the wings are again dark brown and grey patterned.
The outer dark fascia is intersected throughout its length by a grey line.
One or two broods are produced each year, and the Adults may be seen any time from May to September.
The species flies at night and is attracted to light.
Only one brood occurs in the north from mid July-mid August.