Photo © Keith Tailby

Silky Wave

Idaea dilutaria

Checklist Number
70.005 [B&F: 1704]

Verification
Record will require further evidence, at least a good photograph, unless CMR is aware recorder has confidence in identification

Classification

Family:Geometridae
Subfamily:Sterrhinae
Genus:Idaea
Species:dilutaria
Authority:(Hübner, [1799])

A vulnerable Red Data Book species, on grassy slopes and south-facing hillsides in parts of western England, a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Not recorded in Hampshire or on the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 20-22 mm. The most likely confusion species are Satin Wave I. subsericeata and Dotted Border Wave I. sylvestraria from which distinguished by the lack of dots in centre of wings and, usually, by lack of dots along border of wings. Larva feeds on Common Rock-rose.