Scorched Wing

An unmistakable moth, the English name of this species is derived from the moth's fanciful resemblance to burnt paper with its crumpled appearance.

 Adults are rarely seen by day, possibly roost in the tree canopy, but are attracted to sugar, but only usually the males to light. Caterpillars can be found from late June to mid-September and winter is spent as a pupa, in a cocoon in the ground.

Flight Season

Flies in one generation from Mid-May to late June or early July.

Size and Family

• Family – Ennominae
• Medium Sized
• Wingspan Range – 28-32mm

Conservation Status

• UK BAP:
• Local resident

Caterpillar Food Plants

Caterpillars feed on a range of deciduous trees, including Oak (Quercus), birch (Betula), Beech (Fagus), Sweet Chestnut (Castanea sativa) and sallow (Salix).

Habitat

Found in broadleaved woodland and scrub, sometimes even in parks and gardens if stands of large trees are present.

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland
• Well distributed and sometimes frequent throughout most of England and Wales. Expanding in Scotland and widespread in Ireland and the Channel Islands.