The distinctive central cross-line is largely red and as the name suggests it is often accompanied by a central reddish blush on the forewings. The forewing tip is pointed and the outer edge has a central bulge.
The adults are sometimes seen during the day resting on the leaves of trees or Bracken and other vegetation. They feed on tree flowers at night and are attracted to light. The larvae can be found from late June to July and mid-August to September before they overwinter as pupae attached to a fallen oak leaf.
Size and Family
- Family – Mochas and waves (Geometridae)
- Small Sized
- Wingspan Range – 26-32mm
Conservation status
- UK BAP: Not listed
- Local
Caterpillar Food Plants
Pedunculate Oak (Quercus Robur), probably Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea) and possibly Turkey Oak (Quercus cerris).
Habitat
Found in all types of Oak woodland from open scrubby growth to dense mature areas.
Distribution
- Countries – England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland
- Well distributed in England and Wales north to Yorkshire. Very local in Scotland and Ireland. Local and occasional in the Channel Islands.
Maiden's Blush - Patrick Clement
Maiden's Blush
Patrick Clement
Maiden's Blush - Ryszard Szczygieł
Maiden's Blush
Ryszard Szczygieł
Maiden's Blush - Ryszard Szczygieł
Maiden's Blush
Ryszard Szczygieł
Maiden's Blush - Iain Leach
Maiden's Blush
Iain Leach
Maiden's Blush - Patrick Clement
Maiden's Blush
Patrick Clement
Maiden's Blush - Koen Thonissen
Maiden's Blush
Koen Thonissen
Maiden's Blush (caterpillar) - Ryszard Szczygieł
Maiden's Blush (caterpillar)
Ryszard Szczygieł
Maiden's Blush
