Pale Sicklewing
Common NamePale Sicklewing
Scientific NameDrepanepteryx falcataria
FamilyDrepanidae
SubfamilyDrepaninae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia
Host Plantsbirch, alder, hazel, lime, oak
Flight PeriodMay to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees. Pupation occurs in a cocoon spun among leaves. It typically has two generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the unique falcate (sickle-shaped) forewings and the cryptic, mottled brown and grey coloration that mimics a dead leaf. The resting posture with wings held flat also aids identification.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth characterized by its pale, mottled brown and grey wings, which are sharply pointed and distinctly sickle-shaped (falcate) on the forewings, giving it a dead-leaf appearance.
