Lance-winged Pearl
Common NameLance-winged Pearl
Scientific NameDuponchelia lanceolalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)21
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white
HabitatGardens, woodlands, open grassy areas, heathland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia. Introduced to North America.
Host PlantsPlantago, Centaurea, Artemisia, Thymus, Calluna
Flight PeriodMay to October (bivoltine or multivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on various herbaceous plants, often close to the ground. Pupation occurs in a cocoon among the host plant material.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the sharply pointed forewings, the specific wavy transverse lines, and the overall cryptic brown and grey coloration. The hindwings are typically paler with a darker terminal band.
Description
A small moth with distinctive lanceolate (pointed) forewings, featuring a mottled pattern of brown, grey, and whitish scales with wavy dark lines and a prominent discal spot.
