November Moth
Epirrita dilutata
This record describes Epirrita dilutata (species). Recorded family: Geometridae. Recorded order: Lepidoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wingspan 38-44 mm. Three of the members of the genus Epirrita, (November Moth, E. dilutata, Autumnal Moth, E. autumnata, and Pale November Moth, E. chrystyi), can be very difficult to separate on markings alone, especially as some show marked melanism. Where detailed examination has not taken place records should be added as Epirrita dilutata agg. The adults fly from late September to November. The larvae feed in late spring on a variety of trees and shrubs. Occurring commonly over most of Britain. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common. As an aggregate group the November Moths are common in our area but records confirmed by genitalia examination are few, hence its scarce recorded status in VC55. L&R Moth Group status = C (very scarce resident or rare migrant, but genitalia examination needed for secure identification) No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Lepidoptera
- Family
- Geometridae
- Genus
- Epirrita
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Wide range of habitats.
Seasonal Activity
The adults fly from late September to November.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae feed in late spring on a variety of trees and shrubs.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Occurring commonly over most of Britain. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.
About Butterflies and Moths: the wider group
Order-level background for Lepidoptera, the group containing Epirrita dilutata. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Lepidoptera includes approximately 180,000 described species of butterflies and moths. Moths outnumber butterflies roughly 10:1. The monarch butterfly's eastern population has declined by more than 80% since the mid-1990s, and the western population by over 95% since the 1980s. The IUCN lists the migratory monarch as Vulnerable.
Ecological role of the group
Butterflies and moths are essential indicators of ecosystem health. As caterpillars, they are a primary food source for birds - a single nest of blue tit chicks requires ~10,000 caterpillars. Adult moths pollinate many night-blooming plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Lepidoptera are critical pollinators. In Europe, grassland butterfly species have declined by almost 50% since the early 1990s. In the UK, three-quarters of butterflies are in decline. In the U.S., five butterfly species have gone extinct since 1950, with 29 listed as endangered.
Recorded sources for this group: IUCN Red List, Xerces Society, USFWS, PNAS, WWF. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of November Moth (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About November Moth
What is November Moth?
November Moth (Epirrita dilutata) is a species in the family Geometridae, within the order Lepidoptera.
Where is November Moth found?
Habitat: Wide range of habitats.
When is November Moth active?
November Moth: seasonal activity - The adults fly from late September to November..
What is the life cycle of a November Moth?
The larvae feed in late spring on a variety of trees and shrubs.