Marbled Grey
Common NameMarbled Grey
Scientific NameCryphia muralis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyBryophilinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, reddish-brown
HabitatUrban areas, rocky coasts, walls, lichen-covered surfaces
Geographic RangeWestern and Central Europe, North Africa
Host Plantslichens (e.g., Xanthoria parietina, Parmelia species)
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on lichens, typically overwinter as larvae, and pupate in spring.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive marbled pattern of grey, brown, and reddish-brown on the forewings, which helps it blend seamlessly with lichen-covered rocks and walls.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with forewings marbled in shades of grey, brown, and reddish-brown, providing excellent camouflage against lichen-covered surfaces.
