Muslin Moth
Common NameMuslin Moth
Scientific NameDiaphora mendica
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, dock, honeysuckle, willow, birch, hawthorn
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in batches, hatching into hairy larvae that feed on a variety of low-growing plants. Pupation occurs in a cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive brownish-grey forewings with small black spots and the very hairy body. Males are typically darker than females, which can be almost white.
Description
A medium-sized, furry moth with brownish-grey forewings marked with several small black spots, and a densely hairy body that blends well with tree bark.
