Cloaked Marvel
Common NameCloaked Marvel
Scientific NameCryphia muralis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyBryophilinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, green
HabitatUrban areas, rocky coasts, walls, lichen-covered surfaces
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantslichens (e.g., Xanthoria parietina, Parmelia spp.)
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on lichens, overwinter as larvae, and pupate in spring, with adults emerging in summer.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive lichen-like camouflage pattern on the forewings, especially the mottled grey-green-brown coloration and the prominent dark-edged reniform and orbicular stigmata. Often found resting on lichen-covered walls or rocks.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled grey, brown, and greenish forewings that mimic lichen, featuring distinct kidney-shaped and circular spots.
