Black & White Owlet
Common NameBlack & White Owlet
Scientific NameCerastis leucographa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Primary Colorswhite, cream, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, forests, heathlands, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host PlantsVaccinium, Rubus, Primula, Plantago, Taraxacum
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed from late spring to early summer on various herbaceous plants and shrubs. They pupate in the soil and overwinter as pupae, with adults emerging in early spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the stark contrast between the white/cream ground color and the bold, irregular dark brown markings on the forewings, particularly a prominent central band and basal streak. The pale, unpatterned hindwings are also distinctive.
Description
This moth features striking white to cream forewings heavily patterned with broad, irregular dark brown bands and patches, providing a cryptic appearance. Its hindwings are a uniform pale grayish-brown.
