Frosted Green
Common NameFrosted Green
Scientific NameCryphia muralis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyBryophilinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, white, black, grey
HabitatUrban areas, rocky coasts, walls, woodlands, anywhere with lichen-covered surfaces
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantslichens
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on lichens, overwinter as larvae, and pupate in spring. There is typically one generation per year.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, highly variable lichen-like camouflage pattern of green, white, and black, and its habit of resting on lichen-covered walls, rocks, or tree trunks.
Description
A small moth with highly variable, cryptic forewings mottled with shades of green, white, grey, and black, providing excellent camouflage against lichen-covered surfaces.
