Coxcomb Prominent
Common NameCoxcomb Prominent
Scientific NamePtilodon capucina
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyNotodontinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, orange-brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, hazel, lime, elm, willow, poplar, beech
Flight PeriodMay to July (sometimes a second brood in August-September)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with yellow stripes and a humped back, feeding on various deciduous trees. They pupate in a cocoon spun in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsEasily identified by the prominent, raised 'coxcomb' of scales on the thorax and a smaller tuft on the hind margin of the forewing. The overall reddish-brown color and the roof-like resting posture are also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by its reddish-brown to orange-brown wings and distinctive, prominent raised tufts of scales on its thorax and forewings, resembling a coxcomb. Its cryptic coloration provides camouflage against tree bark.
