Scarce Prominent
Common NameScarce Prominent
Scientific NameOdontosia carmelita
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyNotodontinae
Wingspan (mm)43
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white, reddish-brown
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, especially those with birch and alder
Geographic RangeEurope, including the UK, and parts of Asia
Host Plantsbirch, alder, aspen
Flight PeriodApril to June
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are green with a yellow lateral stripe and feed on leaves. Pupation occurs in a cocoon in the soil or leaf litter, overwintering as a pupa.
Identification TipsLook for the prominent dorsal tuft on the thorax, the mottled brown and greyish-white forewings, and the reddish-brown hairy head and thorax. Its early flight period in spring is also a key indicator.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically patterned forewings, mottled brown, grey, and white, featuring a distinctive prominent dorsal tuft on the thorax. The head and thorax are often reddish-brown and hairy.
