Oak Beauty

An unmistakable moth in the early spring, identifiable by the two broad brown bands across the forewing which vary in width and are edged with black. There is a darker form where the banding is still present but less conspicuous. Ground colour varies from white to greenish-grey.

Caterpillars can be found between May and July but this species overwinters as a pupa underground.

Male and female are similar but the female is often whiter and the male has feathered antennae. Adults are sometimes found freshly emerged at the base of tree trunks. Males come readily to light, sometimes in numbers but the females only very occasionally.

Flight Season

Flies from late February to April in one generation.

Size and Family

• Family – Beauties and allies (Ennomines)
• Medium Sized
• Wingspan Range – 40-50mm

Conservation Status

• UK BAP: Not listed
• Common

Caterpillar Food Plants

Oaks (Quercus), Hazel (Corylus), Aspen (Populus), Alder (Alnus), Elms (Ulmus), Sallows (salix) and other broadleaved trees and shrubs.

Habitat

Found primarily in mature oak woodland but also encountered in other types of woodland and scrub and sometimes even some suburban areas where mature trees grow.

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland
• Common and well distributed throughout England and Wales but occurs locally further north.