16-10-2024 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - WAVE MOTH (Idaea cervantaria)

1.4 to 2.2 cm wingspan. Straw-coloured, with yellowish wings with scattered dark, brown or greyish scales. On each wing it has a wavy line with small pointed spots, pointing backwards. Sometimes these details are barely noticeable. Between these lines and the rear edge, it has dark spots that may have a  light wavy stripe. It has a spot on each wing but those on the front wings may go unnoticed.

There are other similar species that are impossible to distinguish externally, so for a correct and safe identification, genital analysis must be used. Several of them have been found in the province of Malaga, although I. cervantaria is currently the most common and the only one that has been observed in urban environments.

The caterpillars feed on dry leaves of herbaceous plants and in captivity on petals of different Asteraceae and sea alder (Lobularia maritima), the latter common in our province, especially in sunny areas of the limestone mountains, and occasionally used in gardening for the showiness of its inflorescences.

It frequently visits urban lights, resting for hours or even days around them if they are in a shaded place.

Wingspan 1.4 to 2.2 cm. Straw-like in appearance, with yellowish wings with scattered dark, brown or grayish scales. On each wing it has a wavy line with small pointed dots, pointing backwards. Sometimes these details are not noticeable. Between these lines and the rear edge, it has dark spots that may have a  light wavy stripe. It has a point on each wing but the ones on the front can go unnoticed.

There are other similar species that are impossible to distinguish externally, so for correct and secure identification it is necessary to resort to genital analysis. Several of them have been found in the province of Malaga, although I. cervantaria is currently the most common and the only one that has been observed in urban environments.

In the province of Malaga, individuals determined by genital analysis were found in January, February and May, while those suspected of being so can be found in all months of the year.