Small engrailed moth

Woodlands, gardens, hedgerows, and other areas with trees or shrubs across much of the Palearctic and introduced regions.

Caterpillars feed on a wide range of deciduous trees and shrubs, including oak, birch, hawthorn, and fruit trees. Adults generally do not feed or take only small amounts of nectar.

Mostly nocturnal and rests with wings held roof-like, using its gray, bark-mimicking pattern for camouflage. One or more generations may occur yearly; larvae are inchworms and pupate in soil or leaf litter.

Harmless to people and valuable as prey for birds, bats, and parasitic insects. Larvae can occasionally damage ornamental or fruit plants when abundant.