May Highflyer

May Highflyer
May Highflyer
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Geometridae
Genus: Hydriomena
Species: H. impluviata
Binomial name
Hydriomena impluviata
Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775

The May Highflyer (Hydriomena impluviata) is a moth of the family Geometridae. It is found across the Palearctic region and the Near East although its range is largely determined by the presence of its larval food plant.

The wingspan is 30–34 mm and it is quite variable in markings, the best identification feature being four square spots along the costa of each forewing, although these may not be visible in the frequent melanic forms. The species flies at night from May to July [1] and is attracted to light.

The larva feeds on the leaves of alder, spinning 2 leaves together so it can feed undisturbed. The species overwinters as a pupa under loose alder bark.

  1. ^ The flight season refers to the British Isles. This may vary in other parts of the range.

Subspecies

  • H. i. impluviata
  • H. i. insulicolata

References

  • Chinery, Michael. Collins Guide to the Insects of Britain and Western Europe 1986 (Reprinted 1991)
  • Skinner, Bernard. Colour Identification Guide to Moths of the British Isles 1984
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