Phalera bucephala – Around 2:30 this morning I discovered this large moth resting on my shed. It is a master of disguise, for it can look like a broken Silver Birch twig. When at rest it holds its wings almost vertically against its body. Wingspan 42 to 55mm. The adult flies June and July, and is mainly seen in mixed woodland. Common and widespread. The larvae feed on various broadleaved trees including birches and sallows.
Attracted to moth trap, rear garden, July 2017. Nikon D7200 © Peter Hillman.
Nature Journeys 
A really beautiful moth – I wish I could disguise myself like that! 🙂
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It is one of my favourites, and a first sighting for me. What? To look like a broken birch twig?| 😉
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I’d need to be wearing my broken birch twig outfit to do that! 😊
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🙂
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Wonderful specimen! 🙂
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Thank you, Indira 🙂 It is certainly one of my favourites!
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Where it is ? 🙂
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It’s in disguise 😉
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🙂 Very skilful !
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Beautiful pictures! It is so awesome how these little guys hide from view! he must have been hard to find!
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He came to my shed light. Thank you very much 🙂
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😁 You’re welcome!
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Terrific shots and find!
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Thank you, Belinda 🙂
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It’s astonishing how specific some camouflage is. This moth would stand out clearly on any flowers. Does it only feed on the sap from broken birch twigs, or does it feed on flowers at night when predators aren’t looking and rest on tree bark in the day?
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In the image the moth is just resting, as most do during the day. At night it will feed on flowers most likely, as you say. It is astonishing how nature has evolved to survive.
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It is amazing camouflage.
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A prime example of evolution at play 🙂
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