Dun-bar
Common NameDun-bar
Scientific NameCosmia trapezina
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, willow, birch, hawthorn, blackthorn
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUnivoltine, eggs are laid in autumn and hatch in spring. Larvae feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and are also known to be predatory on other caterpillars. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic trapezoidal markings on the forewings, which can vary in intensity but are usually discernible. The two small black spots, one in the reniform stigma and one in the orbicular stigma, are also key features.
Description
A medium-sized moth with variable shades of brown forewings, featuring distinct darker and lighter trapezoidal bands and two small black spots. Its cryptic coloration allows it to blend well with tree bark or rocks.
