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

Identification

Usually distinctive. Care required, potential confusion with Common 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

Easily disturbed by day. Attracted to light.

Life cycle

One generation. Overwinters as an egg. Larvae April to June. Pupates among plant debris.

Larval foodplants

Many plants including birches, willows, heathers and Bilberry.

Habitat

Woodland, scrub, heathland, moorland and other habitats.

History

First recorded for Dumfries and Galloway in 1820 for VC72 at Raehills by Little, in 1898 for VC74 at Corsemalzie by Gordon who found it ‘abundant on the moors’ and ‘on tree trunks, being very variable, with melanic forms occurring’ and in 1942 for VC73 near Gatehouse of Fleet by Russell.