Scarce Merveille du Jour
Common NameScarce Merveille du Jour
Scientific NameMoma alpium
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyBryophilinae
Wingspan (mm)34
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, black, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, especially oak and birch forests
Geographic RangeEurope (including parts of the UK, Central Europe) to parts of Asia (e.g., Japan)
Host Plantsoak, birch, aspen
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of host trees like oak and birch. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often in bark crevices or leaf litter, with the pupa overwintering.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its unique bright green and black lichen-like pattern on the forewings, often featuring a prominent black mark near the tornus and a black streak from the wing base.
Description
A medium-sized moth with striking forewings patterned in mottled shades of green, black, and white, providing excellent camouflage against lichen-covered tree bark.
