Buff-tip

Description:

The buff-tip (Phalera bucephala) is a moth of the family Notodontidae. It is found throughout Europe, Mongolia. This is a fairly large, heavy-bodied species with a wingspan of 55–68 mm. The forewings are grey with a large prominent buff patch at the apex. As the thoracic hair is also buff, the moth resembles a broken twig when at rest. The hindwings are creamy-white. This moth flies at night in June and July and sometimes comes to light, although it is not generally strongly attracted. The young larvae are gregarious, becoming solitary later. The older larva is very striking, black with white and yellow lines. It feeds on many trees and shrubs. The species overwinters as a pupa.

Habitat:

Phalera bucephala inhabits all kinds of habitats with deciduous woods, to about 1700m above sea level in the Alps.

Notes:

Photos taken @ Bikodze, Bosnia & Herzegovina.