Lichen Button
Common NameLichen Button
Scientific NamePseudosciaphila branderiana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)16
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, grey, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, parks, areas with oak trees
Geographic RangeEurope
Host Plantsoak (Quercus spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on oak leaves, often spinning them together. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, and the species is univoltine, having one generation per year.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size and remarkable lichen-like camouflage pattern of pale green-grey and irregular black markings on the forewings.
Description
A small moth with a highly cryptic wing pattern, featuring mottled pale green-grey and black markings that provide excellent camouflage against lichen-covered bark.
