Twenty-plume Moth
Common NameTwenty-plume Moth
Scientific NameAlucita hexadactyla
FamilyAlucitidae
Wingspan (mm)17
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, cream, black
HabitatGardens, hedgerows, woodland edges, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia, North America (introduced)
Host PlantsLonicera (honeysuckle) species
Flight PeriodMay to July, August to October (bivoltine), adults can be found year-round due to hibernation
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the flowers and berries of honeysuckle. Adults are bivoltine and overwinter, often found hibernating in sheltered locations.
Identification TipsThe unique structure of its wings, deeply divided into six feathery plumes on each wing, makes it unmistakable. The mottled brown and cream pattern is also characteristic.
Description
A small, distinctive moth with each forewing and hindwing deeply divided into six feathery plumes. Its coloration is mottled brown, grey, and cream, providing excellent camouflage.
