73.25 BF2189

Twin-spotted Quaker Anorthoa munda

([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Wingspan 38-44 mm.

A variable species, with forewings ranging from pale buff to reddish-brown.

The blackish twin spots are usually obvious, but in some forms, including ab. immaculata, these are reduced to barely discernible rufous marks, or obsolete.

It is widely distributed in woodland habitats in England and Wales, but local in Ireland and Scotland. Flying in March and April, like several related species, it can be found feeding on sallow blossom at night.

The caterpillars feed in early summer on various trees, including oak (Quercus), aspen (Populus tremulata) and sallow (Salix).