Angle shades

Angle Shades moth

©Amy Lewis

Angle shades

Scientific name: Phlogophora meticulosa
The angle shades can be well-hidden among the leaf litter - its pinky-brown markings and scalloped wings giving it the perfect camouflage. It is on the wing in gardens, woods and hedgerows from May.

Species information

Statistics

Wingspan: 4.2-5.0cm

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

May to October

About

The angle shades is a medium-sized moth, generally seen on the wing from May to October as the result of two broods. The caterpillars are stout and green or brownish, with faint stripes on every segment. Larvae that hatch in autumn, overwinter as caterpillars, and pupate in the soil the following spring to produce the first generation of adults that year. The caterpillars feed on a wide range of plants including dock and stinging nettles. This moth is quite common in parks and gardens, as well as in scrub, and along woodland edges and hedgerows.

How to identify

The angle shades is a buff-brown moth, with distinctive, pink-and-brown v-shaped patterns on the forewings.

Distribution

Widespread.

Did you know?

With its intricate patterning of pinky-brown, cream and greyish-green, the angle shades moth is perfectly camouflaged as a curled-up, dead leaf. Often found among the leaf litter, it folds its wings back to emphasise its camouflage.

How people can help

To attract butterflies and moths into your garden, plant nectar-rich borders for them to feed along and climbing ivy and shrubs for overwintering insects. To find out more about encouraging wildlife into your garden, visit our Wild About Gardens website: a joint initiative with the RHS, there are plenty of facts and tips to get you started.

An illustration of an angle shades moth

Angle shades moth illustration

Corinne Welch