Sharp-angled Peacock

Macaria alternata

Photo © Andy Mitchell

Sharp-angled Peacock

Macaria alternata

Photo © Andy Mitchell



Macaria alternata, the sharp-angled peacock, is a moth of the family Geometridae. It is found in Europe, Turkey, the Caucasus, Georgia and South Siberia.

Description

The wingspan is 22–27 mm (0.87–1.06 in). The moth closely resembles the peacock moth (Macaria notata) but can usually be recognized by the deeper cut on the forewing edge (hence the name) as well as the distinctly darker grey band through both wings. However, some specimens may require examination of the genitalia for certain identification.

The moth flies from May to June.

The larva feeds on sallow, alder, blackthorn and sea-buckthorn.

Source: Wikipedia

Foodplants

The primary larval foodplants are Alder (Alnus glutinosa), Alder Buckthorn (Frangula alnus), Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), Bog-myrtle (Myrica gale), larches (Larix spp.), Sea-buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) and willows (Salix spp.).