Early Thorn Selenia dentaria
Early Thorn Selenia dentaria
Adult • Chorlton, from larva • © Ben Smart

70.237 BF1917

Early Thorn Selenia dentaria

(Fabricius, 1775)


Wingspan 28-40 mm.

Commonly distributed throughout Britain, though less so in Scotland, occurring in a wide range of habitats.

There are two distinct generations (except in the far north), the first of which flies in April and May. The summer brood, which appears in August and September, usually produces smaller and paler moths.

The larvae feed on a variety of deciduous trees.

Melanic forms occur fairly regularly in parts of northern England.
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