Patina Moth
Common NamePatina Moth
Scientific NameDypterygia patina
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)34
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsdark brown, grey, pale brown
HabitatWoodlands, forests, gardens, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, willow, hawthorn, poplar
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs in the soil, and the species is univoltine, producing one generation per year.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive cryptic coloration resembling bark or dead wood, with a prominent pale patch near the forewing apex and a generally mottled, dark brown and grey pattern. The forewing margin often appears somewhat irregular or 'broken'.
Description
A medium-sized moth with dark brown to greyish-brown forewings, mottled with lighter pale brown or whitish markings, especially along the costa and near the apex, giving it a rugged, bark-like appearance.
