The Vestal is a migrant species, occurring primarily in southern England but in varying numbers. In good immigration years, several hundred may appear, almost anywhere in Britain.
The amount and intensity of the pink pigmentation varies. Native to southern Europe and North Africa.
It flies mainly at night and is regularly attracted to light.
Flight Season
Most UK records are from August to October.
Size and Family
- Family – Geometridae
- Small Sized
- Wingspan Range – 22-28mm
Conservation status
- UK BAP: Not listed
Caterpillar Food Plants
Caterpillars feed on knotgrass (Polygonum), dock (Rumex) and other low-growing plants.
Habitat
Can turn up almost anywhere.
Distribution
- Countries – England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland
- Mainly occurring in southern England in varying numbers
-
In good years, may turn up almost anywhere in Britain.
The Vestal - Samantha Batty
The Vestal
Samantha Batty
The Vestal - Samantha Batty
The Vestal
Samantha Batty
The Vestal - Peter Maton
The Vestal
Peter Maton
The Vestal - Peter Maton
The Vestal
Peter Maton
The Vestal - Patrick Clement
The Vestal
Patrick Clement
The Vestal - Ben Sale
The Vestal
Ben Sale
The Vestal - Samantha Batty
The Vestal
Samantha Batty
The Vestal - Garry Barlow
The Vestal
Garry Barlow
The Vestal - Peter Maton
The Vestal
Peter Maton
The Vestal - Peter Maton
The Vestal
Peter Maton
The Vestal (caterpillar) - Patrick Clement
The Vestal (caterpillar)
Patrick Clement
The Vestal (caterpillar) - Patrick Clement
The Vestal (caterpillar)
Patrick Clement