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Seraphim
Lobophora halterata (Hufnagel, 1767)
Geometridae: Larentiinae
1879 / 70.198
Photo © Ian Gamble,  Berkhampstead, Hertfordshire (05/05/18)

Similar Herts & Middlesex Species
Early Tooth-striped
Trichopteryx carpinata
Forewing: 12-15mm.
Flight: One generation May-June.
Foodplant:   Aspen and Black Poplar.
Red List: Least Concern (LC)
GB Status: Common
Former Status: Local
Verification Grade:  Adult: 2

Hertfordshire Notes: There is a striking absence of records from the north of the county; elsewhere, the moth is common and expected wherever there are Aspen trees. Examples are frequently, sent to me as an unidentified species, but the clue to the identity, at least of the males, lies in the scientific name. A 'haltere' is the vestigial hind wing appearing as a clubbed projection on the side of a fly (Diptera). An examination of the upper surface of the hind wings of a male Seraphim reveals the presence of what appears to be a very small third pair of wings.

Middlesex Notes: Local, but found in all areas of the county. Probably under-recorded.

Recorded in 31 (76%) of 41 10k Squares.
First Recorded in 1887.
Last Recorded in 2024.

Latest Records
Date#VC10k - General Area
11/05/2024320TQ09 - Watford / Rickmansworth
11/05/2024121TQ09 - Watford / Rickmansworth
10/05/2024220TQ09 - Watford / Rickmansworth
09/05/2024420TQ09 - Watford / Rickmansworth
05/05/2024120TL23 - Letchworth / Baldock
01/05/2024121TQ38 - City of London / Hackney
12/04/20241020TQ09 - Watford / Rickmansworth
11/04/2024120TL30 - Hoddesdon / Cheshunt
05/04/2024120TQ09 - Watford / Rickmansworth
10/06/2023120SP91 - Tring
Further info: Lobophora halterata
 
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