Linen Moth
Common NameLinen Moth
Scientific NameCatephia linteola
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsblack, brown, white
HabitatWoodlands, forests, areas with host trees
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, North Africa, Middle East, Central Asia
Host PlantsQuercus (oak species), Populus (poplar species), Salix (willow species)
Flight PeriodMay to June, August to September (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are caterpillars that feed on the leaves of various woody plants, particularly oaks. The species typically has two generations per year.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the dark, cryptic forewings and the prominent, large white triangular patch on the otherwise dark hindwings, which is often visible even when the moth is at rest.
Description
A medium-sized moth with dark, mottled forewings displaying shades of black, brown, and grey, and distinctive dark hindwings featuring a large, contrasting white triangular patch.
