Canary-shouldered Thorn Moth (Ennomos alniaria) & September Thorn Moth (Ennomos erosaria) ©

Right - September Thorn Moth (Ennomos erosaria). Although superficially similar to several other of the autumn-feeding 'Thorns', this species is generally much plainer in appearance. It is reasonably common in England and Wales, becoming scarcer in the north of England and Scotland, and is rare in Ireland. July to October is the main flight period, when the species is often attracted to light. The caterpillar closely resembles a small twig, and feeds on oak (Quercus), birch (Betula) or lime (Tilia).

 

Left - Canary-shouldered Thorn Moth (Ennomos alniaria). Aptly named after the canary-yellow thorax, or 'shoulders', this is a fairly common species all over Britain. It has a single generation which flies from July to October, and is regularly attracted to artificial light. It frequents woodland, gardens and a range of other habitats, and the larvae feed on a variety of deciduous trees.

 

Photo by Nick Dobbs, Bournemouth, Dorset 06-09-21

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