Small Chocolate-tip
Common NameSmall Chocolate-tip
Scientific NameDrymonia obliterata
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyNotodontinae
Wingspan (mm)37.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia (e.g., Russia, Turkey)
Host Plantsoak, birch, beech
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with pale stripes, feeding on leaves. Pupation occurs in a cocoon in the soil or leaf litter, overwintering as a pupa.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled grey-brown forewings with strong, dark, zig-zag transverse lines and a distinct pale subterminal band. The overall cryptic pattern is characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, featuring prominent dark zig-zag lines across the wings and a pale, wavy subterminal band. The body is hairy and blends with the wing coloration.
