Sooty Lappet
Common NameSooty Lappet
Scientific NamePhyllodesma ilicifolia
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyGastropachinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorsdark brown, grey, black
HabitatDeciduous and mixed woodlands, heathlands, scrub, forest edges
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, extending eastwards into parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, willow, sallow, hawthorn, fruit trees
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy and cryptic, feeding on various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in a cocoon, often overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsLook for the dark, mottled wings with a single white discal spot on each forewing, and its characteristic resting posture which mimics a dead leaf or twig. The hairy body and pectinate antennae are also notable.
Description
A robust, dark moth with a very hairy body and wings. Its forewings are mottled dark grey-brown to blackish, each featuring a small, distinct white discal spot.
