Common Cosmet
Common NameCommon Cosmet
Scientific NameElegia simile
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, tan
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, and areas with deciduous trees and shrubs.
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, and parts of Asia.
Host Plantsoak, birch, willow, hawthorn, sallow
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs, often residing within a silken tube. They overwinter as larvae before pupating in the spring.
Identification TipsKey features include its cryptic, mottled brown and grey forewings with subtle darker markings, and its typical resting posture with wings folded roof-like over the body.
Description
A small, slender moth characterized by its mottled brown and grey forewings, which provide excellent camouflage against tree bark. It possesses long, slender antennae.
