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Light emerald

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description Light emerald Overview

The light emerald, Campaea margaritata, is a geometrid moth found across much of Europe in woodland, hedgerows, gardens, and other places containing deciduous trees. Adults have pale green wings crossed by light transverse lines, although the green coloration often fades toward white as a specimen ages. Its caterpillars feed on the leaves of several trees and shrubs, and the adult typically rests with its broad wings spread flat.

help Light emerald FAQ

What is the scientific name and size of the light emerald moth?

The light emerald is Campaea margaritata, a geometrid moth with a wingspan of about 30-40 millimetres. Fresh adults have pale green wings and a distinctive red tip on the forewing. [UKMoths](https://www.ukmoths.org.uk/species/campaea-margaritaria/)

When can I see light emerald adults in Britain?

The main flight period is June through August, with a partial second generation in southern Britain sometimes appearing in August and September. UKMoths records the species across most of the British Isles. [UKMoths](https://www.ukmoths.org.uk/species/campaea-margaritaria/)

What do light emerald caterpillars eat?

The larvae feed on the foliage of deciduous trees rather than on one single host plant. Recorded foodplants include oak, birch, beech, and hawthorn. [Butterflies and Moths of Northern Ireland](https://www.habitas.org.uk/moths/species.asp?item=6053)

What visual clue separates a light emerald from similar green moths?

The pale green wings are usually marked by a blood-red tip on the forewing, sometimes extending as a line along the outer edge. The combination of that red marking and a 30-40 millimetre wingspan is more useful than green color alone. [UKMoths](https://www.ukmoths.org.uk/species/campaea-margaritaria/)

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