The Silver-ground Carpet (Xanthorhoe montanata) is a moth of the family Geometridae. It is common throughout the Palearctic region, the Near East and North Africa.
The wingspan is 29-33 mm although some northern races may be smaller. The forewings are white with a broad shaded band which varies from pale grey to almost black. The hindwings are also white with pale fascia and a small black discal spot. The species flies from May to July, usually at dusk. It will come to light but is not strongly attracted.
The larva is grey with a purplish-brown back. It has been recorded feeding on bedstraw and primrose and probably feeds on other low-growing plants. The species overwinters as a larva.
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
