Poplar Lutestring
Common NamePoplar Lutestring
Scientific NameTethea or
FamilyDrepanidae
SubfamilyThyatirinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, parks, gardens, riparian areas
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia, North Africa
Host PlantsPopulus tremula, Populus nigra, Populus alba
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of poplar and aspen trees, often spinning leaves together. Pupation occurs in a cocoon among leaves or in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled grey-brown forewings with the prominent dark 'lutestring' mark and the overall cryptic coloration, which helps it blend with tree bark.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, featuring intricate dark lines and a distinctive 'lutestring' or 'figure-of-eight' mark. The hindwings are paler grey.
