Galium Carpet

The leading edge of the forewing of this moth is slightly concave in the middle, a feature which assists in its identification.  The forewings tend to be narrower and more tapered than similar species with a broader dark cross-band.  The colour of the moth, including the central cross-band, can vary slightly, with particularly darker forms occurring in western Ireland and lighter forms found on chalk and limestone habitats.

The larvae can be seen from late June to July and September in the south in Ireland and in August in the north. They overwinter as pupae.

Size and Family

• Family – Carpets and Allies (Larentiines)
• Medium Sized 
• Wingspan range - 26-30mm

Conservation Status

• UK BAP: Priority species (research only)
• Local (only found in some areas)

Caterpillar Food Plants

Lady’s Bedstraw (Galium verum), Heath Bedstraw (Galium saxitilis) and Hedge Bedstraw (Galium mollugo).

Habitat

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland
• Well distributed and fairly frequent along the south coast of England and in western Wales, common in the Channel Islands.  Confined to smaller areas inland but widespread throughout England and Ireland.  More restricted in Scotland with the species’ upper limit at the Moray Firth.