Pronunciation: [wˈɪlə͡ʊ bjˈuːti] (IPA) 
The word "willow beauty" is spelled /ˈwɪl.əʊ ˈbjuː.tɪ/. The first part is pronounced as "willoh" with a long "i" sound and the second part is pronounced as "byoo-ti" with a long "u" sound. The word refers to a type of moth with beautiful green and white wings, commonly found in the UK. It can be a challenging word to spell, as "willow" has two "l's" and the "beauty" part has an unusual "eau" spelling.
Willow beauty refers to a species of moth in the family Geometridae, scientifically known as Peribatodes rhomboidaria. This moth is primarily found in Europe, particularly in woodland areas with a presence of willow trees, its preferred host plant. It is also commonly referred to as the striped twin-spot carpet moth due to its distinctive appearance.
The willow beauty has a wingspan ranging from 32 to 38 millimeters, with the characteristic triangular shape typical of geometrid moths. It features an intricate pattern of alternating light and dark gray, brown, and cream-colored stripes on its forewings, which aids in its camouflage when resting against tree trunks or branches. The hindwings are pale gray or white with black spots near the center. This combination of colors and patterns allows the willow beauty to blend seamlessly with the bark of willow trees, providing effective protection from predation.
As a member of the Geometridae family, the willow beauty is primarily nocturnal and is attracted to light sources such as streetlights and lamps. Its larvae, commonly known as inchworms or loopers, feed on the leaves of various plants, with a preference for willow, aspen, and other deciduous trees. The adult moths emerge in late spring or early summer and are known for their graceful flight and delicate appearance.
The term "willow beauty" can also be used more broadly to describe the beauty and elegance associated with willow trees in general. These trees are often admired for their slender and graceful branches, their long, narrow leaves, and the calming ambiance they create with their gentle sway in the breeze.
