Striped Chocolate-tip Moth
Common NameStriped Chocolate-tip Moth
Scientific NameTethea scripta
FamilyDrepanidae
SubfamilyThyatirinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, cream, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, forests, riverbanks, and areas with poplar and aspen trees
Geographic RangePalearctic region, including much of Europe and temperate Asia
Host PlantsPopulus tremula, Populus nigra, Populus alba, Salix
Flight PeriodMay to June, and July to August (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the leaves of host plants. Larvae feed on poplar and aspen leaves, then pupate in a cocoon, often spun between leaves or in the soil. The species typically overwinters as a pupa.
Identification TipsIdentify by its mottled brown and cream forewings that mimic bark, featuring prominent dark, wavy cross-lines and a distinctive dark 'chocolate-tip' marking at the apex of the forewing.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically patterned forewings, mottled in shades of brown and cream, featuring distinct dark wavy cross-lines and a characteristic dark patch at the wing tip.
