Black-tailed Diver Moth
Common NameBlack-tailed Diver Moth
Scientific NameMeganola albula
FamilyNolidae
SubfamilyNolinae
Wingspan (mm)21.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, black, cream
HabitatWoodlands, heathlands, coastal areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, sallow, birch, hawthorn, blackthorn, heather
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on various trees and shrubs, pupating in a cocoon. The species typically overwinters as a pupa.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the mottled brown and black forewing pattern with a prominent dark kidney-shaped spot (reniform stigma), and generally paler hindwings. The overall appearance provides excellent camouflage against bark.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled brown and black markings on a pale cream background, featuring wavy crosslines and a distinct dark reniform stigma on the forewings.
