clouded border

The clouded border (Lomaspilis marginata) is a geometrid moth in the family Geometridae widely distributed across the Palearctic region from Western Europe through Russia and Central Asia to Japan. The adult wingspan measures approximately 18–25 mm, with distinctive white forewings marked with bold dark brownish or blackish irregular marginal and central patches, creating a cloud-like patterned border effect from which the species gets its common name. Adults rest on leaves and branches with wings spread flat, where the broken pattern provides camouflage against dappled light. The species inhabits deciduous woodland, scrub, fen carr, and riverside habitats where willows, sallows (Salix species), and aspens (Populus species) serve as the primary larval foodplants. There are typically two generations per year in southern Europe, one in the north. The clouded border is one of the more familiar and frequently recorded geometrid moths in Britain and Northern Europe, with relatively stable populations in suitable woodland habitats. It is commonly attracted to light traps and serves as an indicator species for structurally diverse deciduous woodland.