Dead Leaf Moth
Common NameDead Leaf Moth
Scientific NameUropyia meticulodina
FamilyNotodontidae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsdark brown, tan, reddish-brown
HabitatForests, woodlands, areas with deciduous trees
Geographic RangeEast Asia (China, Korea, Japan)
Host PlantsQuercus, Acer, Betula, Ulmus
Flight PeriodSummer to early autumn
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They pupate in a cocoon, often found in leaf litter or soil.
Identification TipsIts remarkable dead leaf mimicry, including the serrated wing margin and the distinct color division, makes it highly distinctive. When at rest, it perfectly blends with fallen leaves.
Description
This moth is an exceptional mimic of a dead, curled leaf, with its forewings featuring a serrated outer margin and a sharp diagonal division of dark reddish-brown and pale tan, giving it a three-dimensional, crumpled appearance.
