1724 Xanthorhoe spadicearia (Red Twin-spot Carpet)

Geometridae, Larentiinae - Wingspan: 24-26mm.

A very common little "Carpet" moth which can be found from April through to October, made up from at least two generations annually. The flight periods first peak in May, and the second in July / August. It is one of a number of species, which, when disturbed close their wings over their back like a butterfly, which can make identification difficult. When finally they open them, the central dark red bar across the forewings can be used for identity. However, there is a version of the Dark-barred Twin-spot Carpet, which looks very similar, so the front inner edge of the bar should be inspected to see if there is a V-notch in it. If so, it is the latter species, not this one.