Which beauty?

Nicola Main · #1 (**permalink**) 24-06-2010, 07:31 AM

Photographed this moth last night but unsure as to what it is. Can you help please?

Adam Cheeseman · #2 (**permalink**) 24-06-2010, 11:51 AM

Could be a Mottled Beauty. They are very variable. Have a look through the ones on UKMoths.

Cheers,

Adam

MetalMoth · #3 (**permalink**) 24-06-2010, 01:34 PM

Moth identification help needed!

Yes my first thought was Mottled beauty as it looks like a clearer version of the one I caught (see link to my thread above). The one I caught was much more worn and as someone has explained is different to Willow beauty due to shape of wing tips.

Adam Cheeseman · #4 (**permalink**) 24-06-2010, 01:41 PM

Hi Metal Moth,

the most obvious difference between Willow and Mottled Beauty is that the cross lines on the Willow Beauty converge creating a dark patch on the wing whereas the cross lines on the Mottled Beauty don't converge.
The trailing edge of the hind wings are also different in shape, but the cross lines are your best bet.

Cheers,

Adam

MetalMoth · #5 (**permalink**) 24-06-2010, 02:40 PM

Ah yes I see what you mean about the dark lines converging. That is a good diagnostic sign to look out for, I shall remember that! Thankyou! Those are the kinds of things I am trying to learn to tell similar species apart. I am new to moth ID and am enjoying it, though it is tricky. But then again all ID is tricky when you start. I am learning quick though as I am starting to remember moths resting positions which helps me find them quicker in the book. The thing I am noticing with moths is that it seems quite difficult to spot patterns on some individuals if they are worn and they never seem to quite match the illustration in the book! That's why it is great to have this forum and also use the net to compare photos of other specimens.