Feathered Ranunculus
Common NameFeathered Ranunculus
Scientific NamePolymixis lichenea
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, brown, reddish-brown, white
HabitatCoastal cliffs, rocky areas, heathland, gardens, and other open habitats
Geographic RangeWestern Europe, including the British Isles, France, Spain, and Portugal
Host PlantsSilene maritima, Armeria maritima, Plantago spp., Sedum spp.
Flight PeriodAugust to November
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in autumn and overwinter, hatching in spring. Larvae feed on various low-growing herbaceous plants and pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its highly cryptic, lichen-like forewing pattern of greens, browns, and reds, often with prominent dark stigmata. The antennae are notably feathered, especially in males.
Description
A medium-sized moth with forewings intricately patterned in mottled greens, browns, and reddish-browns, giving it a lichen-like appearance. It features distinct dark reniform and orbicular stigmata.
