Heart Moth
Common NameHeart Moth
Scientific NameDicycla oo
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorscream, brown, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, parks, gardens, especially where oak trees are present
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed primarily on oak leaves, often preferring mature trees. They pupate in a cocoon, typically in the soil or leaf litter. The species is univoltine, producing one generation per year.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the pale ground color contrasted with prominent dark brown markings, especially the reniform stigma which often forms a distinct heart-like shape. The overall pattern is intricate and somewhat marbled.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a pale cream or yellowish ground color, heavily marked with dark brown and reddish-brown patterns, including distinctive heart-shaped spots on the forewings.
