73.068 BF2245

Green-brindled Crescent Allophyes oxyacanthae

(Linnaeus, 1758)

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Wingspan 35-45 mm.

Although superficially a dull brown species, the typical form of this moth has patches of metallic green scales giving it an attractive sheen in the correct light. A melanic form, ab. capucina is quite common in suburban areas, and shows much less green.

An autumn species, flying from September to November, it is fairly common throughout much of Britain, occupying woodland, hedgerows and suburban habitats.

The caterpillars hatch in spring and feed on a variety of trees and bushes, including hawthorn (Crataegus) and blackthorn (Prunus spinosa).