1949 Paradarisa consonaria (Square Spot)

Geometridae, Ennominae Wingspan: 36-40mm.

A locally distributed species which is found in the south and west of the UK, and can be found in woodland throughout Cornwall. The above is a freshly emerged insect showing the distinctive features of this species, particularly the black square spot which leads to its common name. Unfortunately, that feature is not always present in Cornwall individuals, so particularly when they are faded, they can be confused with other species in this group. A constant feature on all the insects in this species is where the inner band crosses over the abdomen, which even in faded specimens appear as a white cross thorax band with a black band at the front of the abdomen. Another confusing point is that some 1949 Engraileds have a darkening near where the square spot feature is on this species. However, the "spot" on the 1949 Engrailed wings is inside the cross band, whereas the Square Spot's mark is on the outer side of the cross band.

The UK flight season is quoted as late April to mid June, but in Cornwall it is from March to some individuals being seen as late as September / October probably as a result of an extra generation from adults flying in June.