Small Decantha Moth
Common NameSmall Decantha Moth
Scientific NameDecantha borkhausenii
FamilyOecophoridae
SubfamilyOecophorinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, white
HabitatWoodlands, parks, gardens, often near deciduous trees
Geographic RangeEurope
Host Plantsdead oak wood, dead beech wood, dead birch wood
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are saprophagous, feeding on dead wood, often under bark of deciduous trees, before pupating in a cocoon.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its unique forewing pattern of contrasting yellow and white markings on a dark background, and the distinctive pale yellowish-brown cilia at the wing margins.
Description
A small moth with dark brown to black forewings intricately patterned with irregular bright yellow and white patches, and prominent yellowish-brown cilia at the wing tips.
