Dotted Border

The male of this common species has a brownish forewing that is quite variable but can be distinguished by a row of black dots along the edge of both fore- and hindwing. The similar looking Mottled Umber lacks these markings and are less conspicuous in the Scarce Umber.

Caterpillars can be found between April and mid-June. Overwinters as a pupa underground

Males come to light and sometimes in large numbers while the female can be found by day resting on tree-trunks.

Flight Season

Flies from February to April in one generation but some individuals can be seen from late December onwards.

Size and Family

• Family – Ennominae
• Medium Sized
• Wingspan Range – 27-32mm

Conservation status

• UK BAP: Not listed
• Common resident

Caterpillar Food Plants

Caterpillars feed on a range of broadleaved trees and shrubs, including Hawthorn, Blackthorn (Prunus), Silver Birch (Betula pendula ), Hazel (Corylus), Willow (Salix), Elm (Ulmus), Sycamore, Apple (Malus) and Plum (Prunus).

Habitat

Can be found in woodland, scrub, hedgerows, gardens, scrubby calcareous grassland, heathland and moorland.

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland
• Common and widespread