73.224 BF2247

Merveille du Jour Griposia aprilina

(Linnaeus, 1758)

Wingspan 42-52 mm.

One of our most beautiful moths, especially when freshly emerged, this species frequents woodland and parks, and is widespread, though thinly scattered over most of Britain.

Pinned specimens in identification guides have often lost the attractive green colour, fading to a brownish yellow.

It flies in September and October and comes to light in small numbers.

The larvae feed on oak (Quercus), at first on the buds and flowers, later on the leaves.