Streak (moth)

The Streak (Chesias legatella) is a moth of the family Geometridae. It is found in Northern and Western Europe and North Africa. It is common in Britain but local and confined to the north in Ireland.

The species is quite variable, the forewings being buff or brown, but is always easily identified by the bold whiteish apical streak which gives it its common name. The hindwings are pale grey or buff. The wingspan is 35-38 mm. It flies, usually at dusk, in September and October and is sometimes attracted to light.

The larva usually feeds on broom but has been recorded on bush lupin. The species overwinters as an egg.

References

• Chinery, Michael Collins Guide to the Insects of Britain and Western Europe 1986 (Reprinted 1991)
• Skinner, Bernard Colour Identification Guide to Moths of the British Isles 1984