The angle shades is a medium-sized moth, generally seen on the wing from May to October as the result of two broods. The caterpillars are stout and green or brownish, with faint stripes on every segment. Larvae that hatch in autumn, overwinter as caterpillars, and pupate in the soil the following spring to produce the first generation of adults that year. The caterpillars feed on a wide range of plants including dock and stinging nettles. This moth is quite common in parks and gardens, as well as in scrub, and along woodland edges and hedgerows.
How to identify
The angle shades is a buff-brown moth, with distinctive, pink-and-brown v-shaped patterns on the forewings.
Did you know?
With its intricate patterning of pinky-brown, cream and greyish-green, the angle shades moth is perfectly camouflaged as a curled-up, dead leaf. Often found among the leaf litter, it folds its wings back to emphasise its camouflage.
How people can help
To attract butterflies and moths into your garden, plant nectar-rich borders for them to feed along and climbing ivy and shrubs for overwintering insects. To find out more about encouraging wildlife into your garden, visit our Wild About Gardens website: a joint initiative with the RHS, there are plenty of facts and tips to get you started.
