Prays parilis
Common NamePrays parilis
Scientific NamePrays parilis
FamilyYponomeutidae
SubfamilyYponomeutinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorscream, dark brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, parks, and areas where ash trees are present
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia (Palearctic)
Host PlantsFraxinus excelsior, Fraxinus
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae develop on ash trees, feeding internally as leaf miners or externally on buds and leaves. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often on the host plant.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive mottled cream and dark brown forewing pattern and its association with ash trees. Definitive identification from very similar *Prays* species often requires examination of genitalic structures.
Description
A small moth characterized by its forewings mottled with irregular patches of cream, dark brown, and black, providing excellent camouflage against bark or wood. Its hindwings are typically a uniform grey.
