1884 Abraxas grossulariata (Magpie)

Geometridae, Ennominae - Wingspan: 36-50mm.

This large, showy species is unmistakable when seen. Common throughout the UK, and widespread in Cornwall. An interesting species, where the adults feign dead if captured or disturbed, often remaining like it for some time after disturbance. The bright markings indicate that it is distasteful for predators, probably as a result of some of its normal food-plants as larvae.

A Summer species which has a flight time between late June to August in the UK. In Cornwall, individuals may be seen from May to September in good years.