Lunar Thorn
Selenia lunularia
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selenia_lunularia
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Lunar Thorn faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat fragmentation and loss of its preferred woodland environments across Europe. Climate change is altering the timing of larval food plant availability, creating mismatches with the moth's emergence periods. Light pollution from urban expansion disrupts adult flight patterns and mating behaviors, while intensive forestry practices reduce the diversity of understory plants essential for larval development.
Habitat
The Lunar Thorn inhabits deciduous and mixed woodlands, particularly favoring areas with diverse understory vegetation including its larval host plants such as blackthorn, hawthorn, and other Rosaceae species. Adults are typically found in woodland edges, clearings, and adjacent scrubland where they can access both shelter and nectar sources.
Other threatened species in Geometridae
Threatened in Åland Islands
Frequently asked questions
Why is Lunar Thorn classified as Endangered?
Where does Lunar Thorn live?
What are the main threats to Lunar Thorn?
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