The markings are clearly visible as the wing rests with both wings held flat. The extent of the border marking can vary, sometimes extending to the centre of the wings towards the body.

The adults fly at dusk and are attracted to light. The caterpillars can be found from mid-July to mid-September before overwintering as pupae underground.

Size and Family

  • Family – Thorns, beauties, umbers and allies (Geometridae)
  • Small Sized
  • Wingspan Range – 22-28mm

Conservation status

  • UK BAP: Not listed
  • Common

Caterpillar Food Plants

Aspen (Populus tremula), poplars, sallows, willows and Hazel (Corylus avellana).

Habitat

Woodland, wetlands and heathland.

Distribution

  • Countries – England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland
  • Well distributed throughout England, Wales and much of Scotland, the Isle of Man and Ireland. Also frequent in the Channel Islands.
Clouded Border - John Murray

Clouded Border

Clouded Border - Ben Sale

Clouded Border

Clouded Border - Ben Sale

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Clouded Border - Pavel Kirillov

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Clouded Border - Vlad Proklov

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Clouded Border

Clouded Border

Clouded Border - Koen Thonissen

Clouded Border

Clouded Border - Koen Thonissen

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Clouded Border - Dave Shenton

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Clouded Border (male & female) - Urmas Ojango

Clouded Border (male & female)

Clouded Border (caterpillar)

Clouded Border (caterpillar)