Early Thorn (Selenia dentaria)

There are probably two main reason why we do not see moths very often. The first is pretty obvious, moth are only active at night. However, the other reason is that whilst at rest during the day they are so well camouflaged.

The Early Thorn is a striking example of this. At rest it looks just like a dead leaf and predators would rarely find it as it sleeps the day away in the depth of shrubbery.

Despite its name it is found not only in April and May, it has a second brood in in August and September. It is widespread and generally common in Southern England but less so in te North where it usually just has one brood flying in May and June.

The larvae feed on a range of trees and shrubs including Hawthorn, Birch, Alder, Sallow and Blackthorn.

Comments