Marbled Beauty (Bryophila domestica)
Species

Taken at Abingdon, Oxon., on July 13th 2020. (© David Hastings)
(1/250th sec at f13)

Description

Family: Noctuidae (ABH : 73.084)

Wing span: 24 - 28mm

The diagnostic feature of this delicately marbled moth is the inner central cross-line, which extends from the leading to the trailing edge of the forewing. The outer edge of the forewing is curved and strongly angled. The ground colour is greyish or greenish white, with pastel green, greyish-green or dull orange marbling.

It is found in England, Wales, southern and eastern Scotland, and eastern Ireland.

It is often associated with old buildings, but can be found anywhere that lichens grow.

There is one generation in July/August. The larva is the over-wintering stage.

Larvae feed on lichens growing on rocks, walls, roofs and trees.

It comes to light, sugar and flowers, and often rests on walls during the day.

Earliest UK sighting: 13th July ; Latest UK sighting: 5th September

Sightings

19-Aug-2025 : Aston, Oxon (1)

01-Sep-2024 : Longcot, Oxon (1)
28-Aug-2024 : Aston, Oxon (1)

05-Sep-2021 : Abingdon, Oxon (1)
01-Sep-2021 : Abingdon, Oxon (1)
27-Aug-2021 : Abingdon, Oxon (2)
25-Aug-2021 : Abingdon, Oxon (1)
21-Aug-2021 : Abingdon, Oxon (2)
12-Aug-2021 : Abingdon, Oxon (1)

12-Aug-2020 : Abingdon, Oxon (1)
13-Jul-2020 : Abingdon, Oxon (1)