Oval-based Prominent
Common NameOval-based Prominent
Scientific NamePhalera bucephala
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyPhalerinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, cream, black
HabitatWoodlands, parks, gardens, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, hazel, willow, lime, elm, sallow
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious, brightly colored with yellow and black stripes and an orange head, feeding openly on leaves. They pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive large, pale oval patch on the forewing, which gives the moth its common name. The overall cryptic grey-brown pattern and robust body are also key features.
Description
A robust, furry moth with mottled grey-brown forewings featuring intricate dark wavy lines and a prominent, large, pale oval patch outlined in dark brown near the base. The hindwings are plain pale cream.
