POPLAR NEEDLE MOTH

ADULT: Wingspan 14-15mm.  A neat micro only appreciated from close up views where the long forewings are seen to have a white background with a blend  of coal black and paler cream areas making for a nice mottled patternation. The hindwings are shining grey, becoming lighter towards the end. The wings are held closely to the body and the antennae are held back over the body. LARVA: The variable coloured larvae feed on the catkins and leaves of Poplar and Sallow. The catkins are partly or completely destroyed by the larva. BEHAVIOUR: Attracted to light and can be seen flying through the day. Adults can also be seen resting on bark during the day. HABITAT: Found in woodland or parkland or wherever the larval foodplants are found. FLIGHT PERIOD: On the wing during July and August.STATUS: Resident and fairly common.