1669 Common Emerald Hemithea aestivaria
Brief Description:
Not as common as its name suggests. This bright green butterfly-like moth is never abundant but is widely distributed throughout Ireland. It retains its green colouration longer than other similar sized
"emeralds". Associated with hedges, copses, woodland and mature gardens. The larvae feed on a variety of shrubs and trees.
Confusion Species:
Care should be taken when identifying "emeralds".
Familiarity with the other species present in Ireland should eliminate any confusion as all have distinctive characteristics and are in fact not all closely related.
Comments:
May be somewhat trap shy and only comes to light in small numbers although larvae can often be found commonly.
Additional information
Map Explanation
©Angus Tyner 2007 Map produced by
MapMate using Digital Map Data (c) Bartholomew 2003