Chinese Character
Common NameChinese Character
Scientific NameCilix glaucata
FamilyDrepanidae
SubfamilyDrepaninae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, black, grey, brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantshawthorn, blackthorn, bramble, apple, pear
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green or brown, often resembling bird droppings, feeding on Rosaceae. Pupation occurs in a cocoon on the food plant or in leaf litter, overwintering as a pupa.
Identification TipsLook for the unique dark, character-like mark on the forewing, combined with the white/cream ground color and small size. The resting posture with wings folded is also characteristic.
Description
A small, white moth with a distinctive dark, often 'character-like' mark on the forewing, and a dark patch near the base. The wings are mottled with grey and have a hairy fringe.
