Small Dusty Wave vs Ear Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Small Dusty Wave Ear Moth
Scientific Name Idaea seriata Amphipoea oculea
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Geometridae Noctuidae
Size 16-20 mm wingspan 24-32 mm wingspan
Habitat Indoors Wetlands
Diet Detritivores Herbivores
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Small Dusty Wave

A tiny pale moth with subtle wavy cross-lines. Commonly found inside buildings where larvae feed on dried organic matter. One of the few moths adapted to indoor living.

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Did You Know?

One of the few moth species that has adapted to complete its life cycle entirely inside buildings.

Ear Moth

A small brown moth whose larvae bore inside grass and rush stems. Very variable in appearance. Part of a species complex requiring dissection for certain identification.

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Did You Know?

Named for its ear-shaped wing stigma, though the marking is so variable it's often hard to see.