Status Very scarce in recent years Hedgerows, scrub, gardens. Females larger with a wingspan of up to 90mm or more. Resembles dried oak leaves when at rest.
The larvae feed on a number of shrubs such as Hawthorn (Crataegus) and Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa). Overwinters as a small larva, best looked for in April and May when the large full grown caterpillars can be found by day, often low on a main stem of the foodplant. Pupates in a tough cocoon near to the ground.Recorded in 36 (49%) of 74 10k Squares. First Recorded in 1873. Last Recorded in 2024. Additional Stats |