Feathered Ear
Common NameFeathered Ear
Scientific NamePterostoma palpina
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyNotodontinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantspoplar, aspen, willow, birch
Flight PeriodMay to August (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are typically green with yellow lateral stripes, feeding on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They pupate in a cocoon spun in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled grey-brown forewings with prominent, often white-ringed, reniform and orbicular spots. The common name 'Feathered Ear' refers to its distinctive, feathery palps, which are not clearly visible in this dorsal view but are a key feature.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptic grey-brown forewings mottled with darker shades and distinct, often white-edged, reniform and orbicular spots. Its coloration provides excellent camouflage against tree bark or dead leaves.
