Laugher Moth
Common NameLaugher Moth
Scientific NameDiloba caeruleocephala
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyNotodontinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorswhite, grey, black
HabitatWoodlands, orchards, gardens, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host PlantsPrunus, Crataegus, Malus, Pyrus, Quercus, Ulmus, Corylus
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in autumn and hatch in spring. Larvae are blue-grey with yellow stripes and red spots, feeding on various trees and shrubs before pupating in a cocoon.
Identification TipsThe unique black 'laughing face' or figure-of-eight mark on the forewings is the primary identification feature. The larvae are also distinctive with their blue-grey body, yellow stripes, and red spots.
Description
A medium-sized moth with white and grey forewings intricately patterned with black lines, most notably a distinctive black 'laughing face' or figure-of-eight mark near the center. The body is stout and hairy.
