Chalk Carpet
Scientific name: Scotopteryx bipunctaria
Usually occurs in July and August, although has been reported in September.
Readily disturbed by day and flies at night, coming to light
Size and Family
- Family – Carpets and Allies (Larentiines)
- Small / Medium Sized
- Wing Span Range (male to female) - 32-38mm
Conservation status
- UK BAP: Priority Species
- Nationally Scarce
Caterpillar Description
Overwinters as a larva, becoming full-fed in June. The larva feeds at night
Particular Caterpillar Food Plants
Common Bird's-foot-trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) and other trefoils, clovers and vetches
Distribution
- Countries – England and Wales
- Southern England north to the north-east coast, also parts of south Wales
- Distribution Trend Since 1970’s = Britain: Declining
Habitat
Calcareous grassland, cliffs, embankments and quarries, favouring areas of broken or bare ground
