Dingy Mocha

Superficially similar to dark forms of the Birch Mocha (Cyclophora albipunctata), but the Dingy Mocha has the apex of the forewing pointed and the hindwing distinctly angled. Double-brooded.

Overwinters as a pupa.

Size and Family

• Small Sized 
• Wing Span Range (male to female) - 26-29mm

Conservation status

• UK BAP: Priority Species
• Red Data Book

Caterpillar Foodplants

Caterpillars feed on smaller leaved sallows, such as Eared Willow (Salix aurita) and Grey Willow (S. cinerea).

Habitat

Damp neutral grassland, limestone grassland, chalk downland, grassland, sandy heathland, sand dunes, woodland rides and clearings

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales
• Dorset and the New Forest. Also very locally in north Devon, with a single recent record in south Wales.
• Distribution Trend Since 1970s = Britain: Declining