3-10-2024 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - WAVE MOTH (Idaea minuscularia)

Wingspan 1.2 to 1.8 cm. White wings with scattered dark scales. Dotted posterior edge and parallel to this, a series of dots on the inside of the wing. Between the two there are dark spots that are often barely  noticeable (photo on the left).

In Málaga it can be confused with other species of Idaea, especially I. incisaria (central photo) and I. calunetaria (left photo), but these last two are generally rarer in urban environments and, among other things, their designs and colours tend to be more contrasting and they have wavy posterior edges of the hind wings, unlike I. minuscularia, which is regular.

In the province of Malaga it can be seen throughout the year, being very rare in July and August, the driest months.

The caterpillars feed on a multitude of low plants in all types of habitats, being adapted to parks, gardens and urban lots.

Adults flock to streetlights at night, remaining on walls for long periods of time, even during the day. It is less common to find them on the ground. Occasionally they enter homes, posing no danger to people, pets or belongings. It is one of the most common species in Malaga, having been found in many urban environments throughout the province, including towns and cities, cemeteries, petrol stations, housing estates and business parks. Among the cities, Arroyo de la Miel-Benalmádena Costa, Fuengirola and Malaga capital stand out, especially in the Teatinos-Universidad district. In this area it has been favoured by an urban model dotted with green areas of various sizes and characteristics, places suitable for this and other moths.