Red List: Least Concern (LC). GB Status: Common.

Identification

Usually distinctive. Care required, potential confusion with Dark Marbled Carpet. The most reliable diagnostic feature is the shape of the post-median line on the underside of the hindwing. In Dark Marbled Carpet this line has a sharp and acute angle, whereas in Common Marbled Carpet it is more rounded and obtuse.

Recording method

Can be disturbed by day. Visits Ivy flowers, Blackberry fruits. Attracted to light and sugar.

Life cycle

Two generations. Overwinters as a larva. Larvae September to May and June to August. Pupates on the foodplant.

Larval foodplants

A wide variety of woody plants including  willows, birches, bramble, hawthorn, privet and heathers.

Habitat

A wide range of habitats including gardens, woodland, hedgerows, heathland, moorland and coastal sites.

History

First recorded for Dumfries and Galloway in 1820 for VC72 at Raehills by Little, in 1898 for VC74 at Corsemalzie by Gordon where it was ‘common’ and in 1942 for VC73 at Gatehouse of Fleet by Russell.