The Beautiful Grey Moth
Common NameThe Beautiful Grey Moth
Scientific NameCryphaea xylina
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyBryophilinae
Wingspan (mm)27.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, areas with lichen-covered trees
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantslichens (e.g., Parmelia species)
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on lichens, overwintering before pupating in spring. Adults emerge in summer, typically having one generation per year.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive lichen-like camouflage pattern on the forewings, predominantly in shades of brown and grey, and its association with lichen-covered trees.
Description
A small moth with forewings displaying a highly cryptic, mottled pattern of dark brown, grey, and black, resembling lichen or tree bark, with indistinct dark lines and stigmata.
