Golden Ear Moth
Common NameGolden Ear Moth
Scientific NameTrachea auriplena
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, brown, grey
HabitatWoodlands, forests, gardens, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, willow, hawthorn
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs, then pupate in the soil, overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its highly cryptic, mottled green and brown forewings, often with a subtle golden-brown or reddish-brown patch near the center, resembling lichen or moss.
Description
A medium-sized moth with forewings intricately patterned in mottled shades of green, brown, and grey, giving it a mossy or lichen-like appearance for camouflage.
