Early Thorn vs Scalloped Hook-tip

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Early Thorn Scalloped Hook-tip
Scientific Name Selenia dentaria Falcaria lacertinaria
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Geometridae Drepanidae
Size 32-40 mm wingspan 30-38 mm wingspan
Habitat Underground Heathland
Diet Herbivores Omnivores
Regions Europe Europe, temperate Asia, Japan
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Early Thorn

A moth that resembles a dead leaf when at rest, with twig-like resting posture. The spring generation is larger and darker than the summer generation. Comes readily to light.

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Did You Know?

When at rest, this moth perches with wings raised over its back like a butterfly, mimicking a dead leaf.

Scalloped Hook-tip

A small moth with strongly curved wingtips and scalloped wing margins that rests resembling a dead leaf. Its mottled brown and grey colouring completes the disguise.

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Did You Know?

The hooked wing tips are unique among moth families and give the Drepanidae their alternative name, hook-tips.